<section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-101" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Agency” means the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Commission” means the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Director” means the Director of the Agency.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Governmental unit” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an instrumentality of the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a county or municipal corporation of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an instrumentality of a county or municipal corporation of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Jackpot game” means a lottery game for which the top prize amount varies:</text> <level label="1"> <text>based on sales; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the prize was won in the preceding drawing.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“License” means a license issued by the Director to act as a licensed agent.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Licensed agent” means a person or governmental unit licensed by the Director to act as a State lottery sales agent.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Multijurisdictional game” means a lottery game offered by the Agency and:</text> <level label="1"> <text>any other political entity outside the State or outside the United States; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any private licensee of a state or foreign nation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>“State lottery” means the lottery established and operated under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“State lottery” includes a raffle conducted by the Agency.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <text>“Subscription” means a method of playing a multijurisdictional or jackpot lottery game by which an individual submits to the Agency:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an application to play a game using the same game data for a specified number of consecutive drawings; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payment for the drawings.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-102" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>Another law that prohibits the sale of lottery tickets or shares or other acts relating to a lottery does not apply to the State lottery.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-103" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>There is a State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-104" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>There is a State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission in the Agency.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-105" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The presiding officer of either house of the General Assembly may recommend to the Governor a list of individuals for appointment to the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>At the time of appointment, each member of the Commission shall be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>at least 25 years old;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a resident of the State who has resided in the State for at least 5 years;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a qualified voter of the State;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>an individual who has not been convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a serious crime or a crime that involves moral turpitude or gambling; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>knowledgeable and experienced in fiscal matters and shall have substantial experience:</text> <level label="1"> <text>as an executive with fiduciary responsibilities in charge of a large organization or foundation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>in an academic field relating to finance or economics; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>as an accountant, economist, or financial analyst, or as a professional in a similar profession relating to fiscal matters or economics.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A member of the Commission may not:</text> <level label="i"> <text>have a direct or indirect financial interest, ownership, or management, including holding any stocks, bonds, or other similar financial interests in any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, table games, or lottery;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>have an official relationship to a person who holds a license under Subtitle 1A of this title;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>be an elected official of State or local government;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, table games, or lottery; or</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>have a beneficial interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of any independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>No more than five members may be of the same political party.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The members of the Commission shall reflect the geographic, racial, and gender makeup of the State.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A member of the Commission shall file a financial disclosure statement with the State Ethics Commission in accordance with Title 5, Subtitle 6 of the General Provisions Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member is 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 2012.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A member may not serve for more than two full terms.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to the hearing requirements of this subsection, the Governor may remove a member for cause.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Before the Governor removes a member, the Governor shall give the member notice and an opportunity for a public hearing.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Governor shall appoint one member of the Commission to serve as a liaison to the State Racing Commission established under Title 11 of the Business Regulation Article.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission shall include at least one member who resides in a local jurisdiction in which a video lottery facility is located.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-106" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>From among its members, the Commission annually shall elect a chairman.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-107" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>With the advice and consent of the Senate, the Governor shall appoint the Director of the Agency, who is the executive officer of the Agency and secretary of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Director serves at the pleasure of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Director must have the training and experience needed to direct the work of the Agency.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Director shall devote full time to the duties of office and may not engage in another profession or occupation.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere in this subtitle, the Director shall have immediate supervision and direction over the Agency.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Director is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-108" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>A majority of the full authorized membership of the Commission is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may not act unless at least 4 members concur.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission shall determine the times and places of its meetings.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The secretary of the Commission promptly shall send the Governor a certified copy of the minutes of each meeting of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The minutes shall include a copy of each regulation of the Agency that is adopted.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Each member of the Commission is entitled to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the salary provided in the budget of the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>reimbursement for reasonable expenses:</text> <level label="1"> <text>incurred in the performance of the Commission member’s duties; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>as provided in the budget of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each member of the Commission shall be paid biweekly.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Each member is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the budget of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>With the advice of the Commission, the Director may employ deputy directors and other staff in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection or otherwise by law, the staff of the Commission is in the State Personnel Management System.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a deputy director is in the executive service of the State Personnel Management System.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A deputy director may be removed only for cause after being given notice and an opportunity for a hearing.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>With the approval of the Commission and in accordance with the State budget, the Director may set the compensation of an Agency employee in a position that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is unique to the Agency;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>does not require the employee to perform functions that are comparable to functions performed in other units of the Executive Branch of State government.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Director, shall determine the positions for which the Director may set compensation under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>The Governor shall include in the State budget sufficient money for the Commission to hire, develop, and organize a staff to perform the functions of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>As deemed necessary by the Commission, the Commission shall hire experts including economists, gaming specialists, and lawyers.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall contract with an outside consultant to provide continual analysis of the gaming industry both within and outside the State and support the licensing activities of the Commission and the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The cost of the consultant required under this subparagraph may be divided proportionally among the video lottery operation licensees as determined by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-109" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to the specific powers granted and duties imposed by this subtitle, the Commission has the powers and duties set forth in this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall conduct studies of the State lottery and gaming program to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>identify any defect in this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or the regulations of the Agency that may allow abuses in the operation and administration of the State lottery and gaming program or any evasion of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or the regulations;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>guard against the use of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, and the regulations of the Agency as a means of conducting organized crime;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>ensure that the regulations of the Agency are proper and that this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, and the regulations are administered to serve the purpose of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>analyze the gaming industry within and outside the State to determine whether Maryland’s gaming program is competitive and maximizing revenues for the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall conduct studies of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the operation and administration of similar laws in other states or countries;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>federal laws that may affect the operation of the State lottery or gaming activities;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>literature on lotteries and gaming activities, including problem gambling programs; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the reaction of citizens of the State to existing and potential features of the State lottery and gaming program.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall submit to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly the reports required under this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall submit monthly a report that states the total State lottery and gaming revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Commission shall submit annually a report that states the total State lottery and gaming revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding year.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Commission shall submit a report whenever a matter requires an immediate change in a State law to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>prevent an abuse or evasion of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or a regulation of the Agency; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>rectify an undesirable condition in the operation or administration of the State lottery and gaming program.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-110" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>With the approval of the Commission, the Director may adopt regulations of the Agency.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The regulations of the Agency shall provide for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>all matters that are necessary or desirable for the efficient and economical operation and administration of the State lottery; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the convenience of buyers of State lottery tickets and shares and of the holders of a winning ticket or share.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-111" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>The Director shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>supervise and administer the State lottery in accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>confer, at least once a month, with the Commission on the operation and administration of the State lottery;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>make available to the Commission any record or other information of the Agency that the Commission requests;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>advise the Commission about any change needed to improve the operation or administration of the State lottery;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>with the approval of the Commission and subject to Division II of the State Finance and Procurement Article, contract for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the operation of all or any part of the State lottery; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the use of space, for advertising or promotional purposes, on tickets or publications distributed by the Agency, if, in the Director’s discretion, the action is fiscally prudent and in the best interest of the State lottery;</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>submit monthly to the Comptroller and to the Commission a certified statement of the total State lottery revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>with the approval of the Commission, contract for the promotion of the State lottery and enter into private sector cooperative marketing project agreements as provided for in § 11–203(a)(1)(xiii) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>With the approval of the Commission and the Legislative Policy Committee, the Director may enter into agreements to operate multijurisdictional lotteries or raffles with:</text> <level label="1"> <text>any other political entity outside the State or outside the United States that operates a lottery or raffle; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a private licensee of a state or a foreign nation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may advise the Director on the operation and administration of the State lottery.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle, the Director may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>arrange for a person to perform any activity, function, or service in connection with the operation of the State lottery which shall constitute a lawful activity, function, or service of the person; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>authorize the Agency to sell lottery tickets for a temporary period at any promotional or special event being held in the State if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in the Director’s determination, no licensed agent is available to conduct the sale; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the person holding the promotional or special event has authorized the Agency to sell lottery tickets at the event.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Agency may not allow the establishment of any system or program that allows a person to purchase a State lottery ticket through an electronic device that connects to the Internet, such as a personal computer or mobile device.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Agency may allow the establishment of a system or program that allows an individual to purchase a subscription through an electronic device that connects to the Internet, such as a personal computer or mobile device.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Agency may allow a licensed agent to sell a voucher that an individual may use to fund the purchase of a subscription.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Agency shall pay a licensed agent that sells a voucher described under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph the commission rate stated in § 9–117 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The Agency shall pay a licensed agent the commission rate stated in § 9–117 of this subtitle for the renewal of a subscription that was originally funded by a voucher sold by the licensed agent and is renewed before the subscription’s expiration for a period of 24 months from the date of the first renewal.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>It is the intent of the General Assembly that the Agency offer the Racetrax lottery game at a frequency that maximizes revenue from the game.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-112" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Active members” means individuals who are recognized by a fraternal organization as dues–paying members or lifetime members.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>“Fraternal organization” means a nonprofit organization that:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="A"> <text>is tax exempt and organized as a fraternal or sororal organization under § 501(c)(7) or § 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code;</text> </level> </level> <level label="B"> <text>owns or leases a property; and</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>has a bona fide membership of at least 300 active members or has been located in a county in which subsection (d) of this section applies for at least 5 years before the organization applies for a license under subsection (d) of this section; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is independent and the membership of which comprises solely graduate members of a nationwide fraternity or sorority that is tax exempt under § 501(c)(7) or § 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Fraternal organization” does not include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>any college or high school fraternity or sorority; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any other fraternity or sorority the membership of which is restricted in whole or in part to students or graduates of an educational institution or a professional school.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Veterans’ organization” means an organization that is tax exempt and organized as a veterans’ organization under § 501(c)(19) or § 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, in accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle, the Director shall issue licenses to the persons and governmental units that will best serve the public convenience and promote the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Before issuing a license to an applicant, the Director may consider such factors as:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the financial responsibility and security of the applicant and the business or activity of the applicant;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the accessibility of the place of business or activity to the public;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the sufficiency of existing licenses to serve the public convenience; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the volume of expected sales.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection does not apply in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Caroline County;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Cecil County;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Dorchester County;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>Kent County;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>Queen Anne’s County;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>Somerset County;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>Talbot County;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>Wicomico County; and</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>Worcester County.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Director may issue a license under this subtitle for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>not more than five instant ticket lottery machines to an applicant that is a veterans’ organization; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>not more than three instant ticket lottery machines to an applicant that is a fraternal organization.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A veterans’ organization or fraternal organization that is issued a license under this subsection shall locate and operate its instant ticket lottery machines at its principal meeting hall in the county in which the veterans’ organization or fraternal organization is located.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>As a retailer under the instant ticket lottery machine program, a veterans’ organization or fraternal organization shall be compensated based on a percentage of proceeds.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>After deduction of any validation prize payout as provided under § 9–117 of this subtitle, a veterans’ organization issued a license under this subsection shall retain 50% of the net proceeds and credit the remaining net proceeds from the sale of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–118 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On a properly approved transmittal, the Agency shall pay the following amounts from the net proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines operated by a veterans’ organization:</text> <level label="1"> <text>5% to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund established under § 9–913 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to the Agency, an amount necessary to pay for the purchase or lease of the instant ticket lottery machines and Agency administration fees for the program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any remaining amount to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>After deduction of a validation prize payout, a fraternal organization issued a license under this subsection shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>retain 25% of the net proceeds for undergraduate, graduate, or trade school scholarships or capital improvements, capital outlays, acquisitions, or existing community outreach programs and resources; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>remit the remainder to the Agency to be distributed as provided in subparagraph (iv) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>On a properly approved transmittal, the Agency shall pay the following amounts from the net proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines operated by a fraternal organization:</text> <level label="1"> <text>20% to the Homelessness Solutions Program in the Department of Housing and Community Development, to be used, in consultation with the Department of Veterans and Military Families, to assist veterans and families of veterans, with priority given to:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>women veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>single–parent veteran families; and</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>veterans who are victims of domestic violence;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>5% to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund established under § 9–913 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>to the Agency, an amount necessary to pay for the purchase or lease of the instant ticket lottery machines and Agency administration fees for the program; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>any remaining amount to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this title.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>An organization may not use net proceeds from the sale of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines that would otherwise be distributed as required under paragraph (3) of this subsection for the costs of purchasing or leasing instant ticket lottery machines.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>The Director may adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this subsection that include restricting the location of instant ticket lottery machines in areas of a veterans’ organization’s or a fraternal organization’s public meeting hall that is accessible to the public.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A fraternal organization may not locate or operate its instant ticket lottery machines in a meeting hall that is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>located on or affiliated with the campus of an institution of higher education; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>located in a building where students of an institution of higher education reside.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Agency shall ensure that the element of chance in the conduct of the gaming through the instant ticket lottery machines established under this subsection is contained wholly within the predetermined instant lottery ticket, and that player enhancements in an instant ticket lottery machine may not affect the element of chance.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Director may not issue a license to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a person or governmental unit to engage in business primarily as a licensed agent; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an individual who is under the age of 21 years.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission may hear and decide an appeal of a denial of a license.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-112.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Central Repository” means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Agency shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check for each new applicant for a license under § 9–113 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Director may require any applicant seeking a change of ownership or renewal of a license to submit fingerprints to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Central Repository shall provide to the Agency:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the State and national criminal history records of each individual requiring a criminal history records check under subsection (b) of this section and issue a printed statement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation report;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an update of the initial criminal history records check for an individual requiring a criminal history records check and issue a revised printed statement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation report listing any criminal charge occurring after the date of the initial criminal history records check; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an acknowledged receipt of the application for a criminal history records check by an individual requiring a criminal history records check.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>As part of the application for a criminal history records check, the Agency shall submit to the Central Repository:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a complete set of the applicant’s legible fingerprints taken on forms approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the fee authorized in § 10–221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>In accordance with §§ 10–201 through 10–234 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the applicant and the Agency a printed statement of the applicant’s criminal history record information.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall preclude the Director from notifying a licensed agent or an applicant of the approval or disqualification based on information obtained by the Agency under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be confidential;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may not be redisseminated; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>may be used only in connection with the issuance of a license required under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the printed statement issued by the Central Repository as provided in § 10–223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-113" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>A license authorizes the licensee to act as a State lottery sales agent while the license is effective.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-114" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>The Director may require any lottery agent granted a license to post either an appropriate surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or cash security deposit in the amount that the regulations of the Agency set.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In lieu of a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or cash security deposit, the Agency, at the discretion of the Director, may provide a blanket bond covering all or selected agents in accordance with the availability of bonds and the financial status of an individual or a corporation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A bond provided by the Agency shall be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provided at the agent’s expense; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>based upon a financial evaluation of the agent conducted by the Director.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-115" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>Each licensed agent shall display prominently the license or a copy of it, as the regulations of the Agency require.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-116" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>The Commission may suspend or revoke a license, on the recommendation of the Director.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-117" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>A licensed agent shall receive regular commissions of 5.75% of the licensed agent’s gross receipts from ticket sales.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A licensed agent may further receive a cashing fee not to exceed 2% of valid prizes paid for services rendered in cashing winning tickets.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may authorize the payment of special bonuses to licensed agents and their employees.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The total of the bonuses may not exceed one–half of 1% of the gross receipts from ticket sales for the year for which the bonuses are awarded.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Lottery sales agents may not offer patrons inducements of alcoholic beverages to purchase or redeem lottery tickets.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Unless otherwise expressly provided by a lease for premises on which lottery tickets are sold, whenever lottery tickets are sold by a licensed agent on premises subject to rent that is wholly or partially based on a percentage of gross sales or receipts, the tenant responsible for payment of the rent may calculate that portion of the rent arising from the sale of lottery tickets solely on the basis of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the commission received by the licensed agent on the sale of those tickets; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>in the case of instant lottery tickets, the difference between the price paid by the licensed agent in purchasing the tickets from the Agency and the price for which they were sold by the agent.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-118" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a State Lottery Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except as otherwise specifically provided by law:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Agency shall account to the Comptroller for all of the revenue under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Comptroller shall credit the revenues to the State Lottery Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A system of voucher deposits may be used for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>payout of prizes;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payout of commissions; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>reimbursement for money paid out for prizes or commissions.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-119" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>Except for the commission of a licensed agent, all of the receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares are due to the Agency:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on the due date that the Agency sets; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>at the times and within the intervals prescribed by Agency regulations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>The Director shall require all licensed agents to deposit, with a bank that the licensed agent selects and to the credit of the State Lottery Fund, all of the receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares less any commission and validation prize payout.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>A licensed agent may commingle proceeds from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares with business receipts of the licensed agent.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Proceeds, including cash proceeds of the sale of any lottery products less any commission and validation prize payout, shall be remitted and paid directly or through the Agency’s authorized collection representative.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Licensed agents and each person who is a guarantor or indemnitor of a licensed agent’s financial obligations to the Agency shall be liable for all proceeds from the sale of lottery tickets or shares.</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>The Director may adjust the time, interval, or method of collection for collections of proceeds of any licensed agent.</text> </level> <level label="v"> <level label="1"> <text>Nothing in this subsection may be construed to impose obligations or liability on any bank in which proceeds from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares are deposited.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>This subparagraph does not affect the rights and obligations of any financial institution that has issued an irrevocable letter of credit or holds any cash security deposit as provided in § 9-114 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Director may require any or all licensed agents to submit to the Director or a designee of the Director a report that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is in the form that the Director requires; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>gives the information that the Director requires as to the transactions in and receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Agency may impose a service charge if the payor bank dishonors:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a check that is given to the Agency by a licensed agent; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an electronic transfer of funds to the State lottery account from the account of a licensed agent for money received from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The service charge under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be sufficient to cover the Agency’s costs associated with the dishonored return.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Director shall adopt regulations specifying the costs and the methodology for determining the costs that are associated with a dishonored return.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The service charge imposed under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be in addition to any other fees or charges authorized to be charged under this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A licensed agent shall be charged:</text> <level label="1"> <text>as provided in § 13-604(a) of the Tax - General Article, interest on the money that is not paid to the Agency within 10 days after the due date; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the Agency refers the debt to the Central Collection Unit of the Department of Budget and Management, an additional fee sufficient to cover administrative and collection costs, in an amount equal to any fee charged by the Central Collection Unit in accordance with § 3-304(a)(2) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The amount, including any interest or penalty charge, due to the Agency from a licensed agent, as of the time that notice of the lien is filed:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is a lien on the property of that licensed agent; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to paragraph (5) of this subsection, has the same effect as a judgment lien.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Agency shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>file a notice of the lien with the clerk of the circuit court for the county where the property is located; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>mail a copy of the notice to the business address of the licensed agent.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The clerk of court promptly shall enter in the judgment docket of the court:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the name of the licensed agent;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the amount of the lien; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the date of the lien.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Within 30 days after the lien is filed, the licensed agent may petition the court for a hearing as to the amount that is due to the Agency.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Until an officer of a court levies on personal property, the lien is not effective against an innocent buyer for value.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-120" future_version_removed="true" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>The Comptroller shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>distribute, or cause to be distributed, the State Lottery Fund to pay:</text> <level label="i"> <text>on a pro rata basis for the daily and nondaily State lottery games, the expenses of administering and operating the State lottery, as authorized under this subtitle and the State budget; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>then, except as provided in § 10–113.1 of the Family Law Article, § 11–618 of the Criminal Procedure Article, and § 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, the holder of each winning ticket or share; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>cause to be distributed to the State Lottery Fund:</text> <level label="i"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, $5,000,000 from the Purse Dedication Account, in accordance with § 9–1A–28(b)(3)(ii) of this title;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, $3,500,000 from the funds for local impact grants, in accordance with § 9–1A–31(a)(4)(i)3 and (b)(3)(i)2 of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, 80% of the amount of funds from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account allocated to thoroughbred track licensees, in accordance with § 9–1A–29(d)(1)(i)2 of this title.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>By the end of the month following collection, the Comptroller shall deposit, cause to be deposited, or pay:</text> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>after June 30, 2023, but not later than June 30, 2026, into the Maryland Stadium Facilities Fund established under § 7–312 of the State Finance and Procurement Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount not to exceed $14,200,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>after June 30, 2023, but not later than June 30, 2026, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>$34,900,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>$40,900,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>after June 30, 2026, but not later than June 30, 2039, into the Maryland Stadium Facilities Fund established under § 7–312 of the State Finance and Procurement Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount not to exceed $3,360,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>after June 30, 2026, but not later than June 30, 2039, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>$45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>$41,640,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>after June 30, 2039, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>$45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>$45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>after June 30, 2014, into the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund 10% of the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines by veterans’ organizations under § 9–112(d) of this subtitle, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>after June 30, 2014, into the Baltimore City Public School Construction Financing Fund established under § 10–656 of the Economic Development Article the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) and (ii) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $20,000,000 in each fiscal year that bonds are outstanding and unpaid, to be paid in two installments with at least $10,000,000 paid no later than December 1 of each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>after June 30, 2026, into the Racing and Community Development Financing Fund established under § 10–657.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for fiscal year 2026, an amount equal to $13,400,000; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for each fiscal year thereafter, an amount equal to at least $29,000,000 until the bonds issued for a racing facility have matured;</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>after June 30, 2020, into the Michael Erin Busch Sports Fund established under § 10–612.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (iv) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $1,000,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>after June 30, 2021, a grant to the Maryland Humanities Council for Maryland History Day and other programming from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (v) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $150,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>after June 30, 2021, to Anne Arundel County or Baltimore City each fiscal year the amount required to be distributed under § 9–1A–31(a)(7)(ii) of this title to be used as required under § 9–1A–31 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>after June 30, 2022, into the Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund established under § 5–243 of the Education Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all other lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (vii) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $250,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>after June 1, 2022, to the Sports Entertainment Facilities Financing Fund established under § 10–657.5 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (viii) of this paragraph, an amount not to exceed $25,000,000 to be paid in two installments not later than November 1 and June 1 of each fiscal year;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>after June 30, 2022, to the Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program Fund established under § 10–611.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (ix) of this paragraph:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for fiscal year 2023, an amount equal to $10,000,000; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for each fiscal year thereafter, the amount necessary to restore the Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program Fund to a balance of $10,000,000;</text> </level> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>after June 30, 2024, into the Bus Rapid Transit Fund established under § 2–802.1 of the Transportation Article for bus rapid transit system grants in accordance with § 2–802 of the Transportation Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (x) of this paragraph:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for fiscal year 2025, an amount equal to $27,000,000 in each fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for each fiscal year thereafter, an amount equal to $17,000,000 in each fiscal year;</text> </level> </level> <level label="xii"> <level label="1"> <text>after June 30, 2026, except as provided in item 2 of this item, into the Prince George’s County Blue Line Corridor Facility Fund established under § 10–657.6 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xi) of this paragraph, $29,000,000; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for fiscal year 2027:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>$18,000,000 for a grant to the Maryland Economic Development Corporation for the purpose of a mixed–use development, including a soccer stadium at the University of Maryland, College Park;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>$4,000,000 for a grant to the Velocity Companies for infrastructure improvements and economic development along the Blue Line Corridor;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>$2,000,000 for a grant to the Atlantic Pacific Companies to support the Addison Park Development Project;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>$1,500,000 for a grant to the Prince George’s County Redevelopment Authority to support Artspace in Mount Rainier;</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>$750,000 for a grant to the Town of Colmar Manor for the Colmar Manor Community Center and Town Hall; and</text> </level> <level label="F"> <text>$750,000 for a grant to the Town of Cottage City for converting a firehouse into a Community Outreach Center;</text> </level> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>after June 30, 2024, a supplemental local impact grant of $3,000,000 each fiscal year to the County Executive and County Council of Prince George’s County from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xii) of this paragraph to be distributed in Prince George’s County in accordance with § 9–1A–31 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="xiv"> <text>subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection after June 30, 2025, supplemental local impact aid of $250,000 each fiscal year from the proceeds of the Racetrax lottery game to Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and the City of Laurel in proportion to each jurisdiction’s share of the money required to be paid under § 11–404(d) of the Business Regulation Article to be used in accordance with paragraph (4) of this subsection; and</text> </level> <level label="xv"> <text>into the General Fund of the State the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xiv) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The money paid into the General Fund under this subsection is available in the fiscal year in which the money accumulates in the State Lottery Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Comptroller may not pay the supplemental local impact aid required under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection for any fiscal year following the fiscal year that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Laurel Race Course is no longer used for live racing or training; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course are no longer living on the Laurel Race Course property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and the City of Laurel shall use the supplemental local impact aid required under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection to provide programs and services to the communities surrounding Laurel Race Course including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>health and mental health services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>individual and family counseling;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>drug and alcohol addiction awareness, support, and treatment;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>social services;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>nutrition and wellness programs; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>transportation, if necessary, to off–site medical and wellness services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>Anne Arundel County may use the supplemental local impact aid under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection only to provide grant funding for the purposes identified under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph to nonprofit organizations:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>with a history of working with backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>that employ Spanish–speaking program staff or provide translation services for nonnative English speakers.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In consultation with at least two Laurel Race Course backstretch workers designated by the County Executive, Anne Arundel County may use the public grant application process developed and administered by the Laurel Race Course Impact Advisory Committee to provide grant funding to nonprofit organizations under this subparagraph.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A nonprofit organization that receives grant funding under this subparagraph may use the funding only to provide programs and services at Laurel Race Course or within 1 mile of Laurel Race Course to backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course or residents living in the 20724 postal zip code.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The regulations of the Agency shall apportion the money in the State Lottery Fund in accordance with subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-122" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>The regulations of the Agency shall provide for winning tickets to be drawn at least once a week.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, § 10–113.1 of the Family Law Article, § 11–618 of the Criminal Procedure Article, and § 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, a prize won under this subtitle is not assignable.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the prize winner dies before the prize is paid, the prize may be paid to the estate of the prize winner.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Under appropriate court order, a prize won under this subtitle may be paid to a person other than the winner.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>The right of a person to receive payment under a prize that is paid in installments over time by the Agency may be voluntarily assigned as a whole or in part, if the assignment is made to a person designated in accordance with an order of the circuit court in the county where the headquarters of the Agency is located.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A circuit court specified under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph may hear petitions for approval of voluntary assignments.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>On the filing by the assignor or the assignee in the circuit court of a petition seeking approval of a voluntary assignment, the court shall issue an order approving a voluntary assignment and directing the Agency to make prize payments as a whole or in part to the assignee if the court finds that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the assignment is in writing, is executed by the assignor, and is by its terms subject to the laws of this State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the assignor provides a sworn affidavit attesting that the assignor is of sound mind, is in full command of the assignor’s faculties, and is not acting under duress;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the assignor has been advised about the assignment by an independent attorney who is not related to and not compensated by the assignee or an affiliate of the assignee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the assignor has received independent financial or tax advice concerning the effects of the assignment from an attorney or other professional who is unrelated to and is not compensated by the assignee or an affiliate of the assignee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the assignor understands that the assignor will not receive the prize payments or parts of payments during the years assigned;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the assignor understands and agrees the Agency, Commission, and officials and employees of the Agency are not liable or responsible for making any of the assigned payments;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the assignee provides the assignor with a one–page disclosure statement that sets forth in bold type not less than 14 points in size the payments being assigned by amount and payment date, the purchase price, the rate of discount to present value assuming daily compounding and funding on the contract date, and any origination or closing fee that will be charged to the assignor; and</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the contract of assignment expressly states that the assignor has 5 business days after signing the contract to cancel the assignment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iv"> <level label="1"> <text>Written notice of the petition and proposed assignment and any court hearing concerning the petition and proposed assignment shall be given to the Agency’s counsel at least 30 days before a court hearing.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Agency need not appear in or be named as party to an action that seeks judicial approval of an assignment but may intervene as of right in the action.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A certified copy of a court order approving a voluntary assignment shall be given to the Agency not later than 60 days before the date on which the payment is to be made.</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>Beginning October 1, 2006, the Agency, not later than 30 days after receiving a certified copy of a court order approving a voluntary assignment, shall send the assignor and the assignee written confirmation of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the court–approved assignment; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the intent of the Agency to rely on the assignment in making payments to the assignee named in the order.</text> </level> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>A voluntary assignment may not include or cover payments or parts of payments to the extent that the payments are subject to child support payments, criminal restitution, or bankruptcy proceedings as of the date of the court order approving a voluntary assignment.</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <level label="1"> <text>The Agency, the Commission, and officials and employees of the Agency are not liable under this paragraph after payment of an assigned prize is made.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The assignor and assignee shall hold harmless and indemnify the Agency, the Commission, and the State and its employees and agents from all claims, suits, actions, complaints, or liabilities related to the assignment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="viii"> <level label="1"> <text>The Agency may establish a reasonable fee to defray administrative expenses associated with assignments made under this section, including a processing fee imposed by a private annuity provider.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The amount of the fee shall reflect the direct and indirect costs of processing assignments.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ix"> <level label="1"> <text>A contract of assignment in which the assignor is a lottery winner shall include a sworn affidavit in a form that the Agency provides and the assignee completes.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Until the Agency provides the form, an assignee may use its own form that includes the information required in subsubparagraph 3 of this subparagraph.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The affidavit shall include:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>a summary of assignee contacts with the winner;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>a summary of any complaints, lawsuits, claims, or other legal actions from lottery winners regarding conduct of the assignee or its agents;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>a statement that the assignee is registered to do business in the State and is in good standing with the Department of Assessments and Taxation and any other licensing or regulatory unit whose approval is required in the conduct of the assignee’s business;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>a brief business history of the assignee;</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>a description of the business of the assignee; and</text> </level> <level label="F"> <text>a statement of the assignee’s privacy and nonharassment policies and express affirmation that the assignee has followed those policies in the State.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The affidavit shall be provided only by the assignee who enters into the contract with the lottery winner or the estate of a lottery winner.</text> </level> </level> <level label="x"> <text>The assignee shall notify the Agency of its business location and mailing address for payment purposes and of any change in location or address during the entire course of the assignment.</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>An assignment may be made by a husband and wife who are co–owners of a prize only if they jointly assign the prize to an assignee.</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <level label="1"> <text>A court order or a combination of court orders under this section may not require the Agency to divide a single prize payment among more than three different persons.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>This section does not prohibit the substitution of assignees as long as there are not more than three assignees at any one time for any one prize payment.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Any subsequent assignee is bound as the original assignee by the provisions of this section and the terms and conditions of the contract of assignment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>If the Internal Revenue Service or a court of competent jurisdiction issues a determination letter, revenue ruling, or other public document declaring that the voluntary assignment of prizes will affect the federal income tax treatment of lottery prize winners who do not assign their prizes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>within 15 days after the Agency receives the letter, ruling, or other document, the Director of the Agency shall file a copy of it with the Attorney General; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a court may not issue an order authorizing a voluntary assignment under this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="xiv"> <text>This paragraph shall prevail over any inconsistent provision in § 9–406 of the Commercial Law Article.</text> </level> <level label="xv"> <text>A contract or agreement made or entered into on or before May 31, 2006, that purports to voluntarily assign or grant an interest in prize payments is void.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Director may establish by regulation the amount a licensed agent may pay in cash game prizes.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Financial institution” has the meaning stated in § 13–301 of the Estates and Trusts Article.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Guardian” has the meaning stated in § 13–101 of the Estates and Trusts Article.</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>“Member of the minor’s family” has the meaning stated in § 13–301 of the Estates and Trusts Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If a minor wins a prize of less than $5,000, the Director may give a draft, as provided for in rules and regulations of the Agency payable to the order of the minor, to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an adult member of the minor’s family; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a guardian of the minor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If a minor wins $5,000 or more, the Director may deposit the prize in a financial institution to the credit of one of the following, as custodian for the minor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an adult member of the minor’s family; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a guardian of the minor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A custodian under paragraph (3) of this subsection has the same powers and duties as a custodian under the Maryland Uniform Transfers to Minors Act.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>On payment of a prize in accordance with this section, the Director is discharged of all liability.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>A prize winner shall claim a prize within 182 days after the drawing in which the prize is won.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Director shall keep an unclaimed prize:</text> <level label="i"> <text>for 182 days after the drawing in which the prize is won, for payment of the winner; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>then in an unclaimed prize fund for use for other prizes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>For a game that the Agency designates as a bonus game or drawing and that is not a daily or weekly State lottery drawing, the period for claiming a prize may differ from the period set in paragraph (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>Unless otherwise specifically provided by the laws of the State, and except for prizes paid for any multistate lottery game, the State and every officer, department, agency, board, commission, or other unit of State government may not raise the defense of sovereign immunity in the courts of the State in an action in contract brought by an annuitant or prize winner that is based on the liability of the State to pay an annuitant or prize winner the prize that the annuitant is entitled to receive in accordance with this subtitle and any regulations adopted under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the State may raise the defense of sovereign immunity to a contract action brought by an annuitant or prize winner of any multistate lottery game, for any claim that exceeds $200,000.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-123" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>A State lottery ticket or share may not be bought by and a prize may not be given to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an officer or employee of the Agency; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an individual who is a spouse, child, parent, or sibling of an officer or employee of the Agency and resides in the principal residence of the officer or employee.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-124" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not prohibit:</text> <level label="1"> <text>giving a State lottery ticket or share as a gift;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>buying a State lottery ticket or share as a gift for a minor; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Agency from directly selling any State lottery ticket to the public as provided in § 9–111(d) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person or governmental unit may not:</text> <level label="1"> <text>hold itself out to the public as a State lottery sales agent without being licensed by the Agency to act as a licensed agent;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>unless a licensed agent or employee of a licensed agent, sell a State lottery ticket or share;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>sell or purchase:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a State lottery ticket or share at any price other than the price that the regulations of the Agency set; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the prize validated for payment by the Agency;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>sell a State lottery ticket or share to a minor;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>knowingly present a counterfeit or altered State lottery ticket or share for payment;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>knowingly transfer a counterfeit or altered State lottery ticket or share to another person to present for payment; or</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>knowingly purchase a State lottery ticket or share from another person with the intent to deceive or circumvent the payment of prize winnings to the State, in accordance with:</text> <level label="i"> <text>§ 11–616(b) of the Criminal Procedure Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>§ 10–113.1(b) of the Family Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>§ 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>§ 10–905(c)(3) of the Tax – General Article.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Unless a person receives written authorization from the Agency, the person may not use the term “Maryland State lottery”, “Maryland lottery”, “State lottery”, “Maryland State Lottery Agency”, “Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency”, “Maryland State Lottery Commission”, “Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission”, or any variation of these terms in the title or name of a charitable or commercial enterprise, product, or service.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A licensed agent may not fail to report, as required by the Internal Revenue Service or the Agency, income tax information relating to holders of winning lottery tickets.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For prizes of over $600, a licensed agent may not fail to determine, through the Agency and prior to paying the prize whether a holder of a winning lottery ticket has been certified under:</text> <level label="i"> <text>§ 11–616(b) of the Criminal Procedure Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>§ 10–113.1(b) of the Family Law Article; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>§ 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A licensed agent may not pay a prize to a holder of a winning lottery ticket if the Agency has notified the licensed agent that the holder has been certified under:</text> <level label="i"> <text>§ 11–616(b) of the Criminal Procedure Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>§ 10–113.1 of the Family Law Article; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>§ 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A licensed agent may not:</text> <level label="i"> <text>pay a prize winner less than the lawfully due prize amount;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>deceive or conspire with another person to pay less than the lawfully due prize amount to any prize winner;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>seek payment or claim reimbursement of a cashing fee for cashing a winning ticket for less than the lawfully due prize amount; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>receive a cashing fee for cashing a winning ticket filed in error.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A person who violates any provision of subsection (b), (c), or (d) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500 or imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or both.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-125" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency"> <text>This subtitle may be cited as the “Maryland State Lottery Law”.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Applicant” means a person who applies for any license required under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Associated equipment” means hardware located on the licensee’s premises that is connected to the video lottery system for the purpose of performing communication, validation, or other functions, but not including the communication facilities of a regulated utility or the video lottery terminals.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Average payout percentage” means the average percentage of money used by players to play a video lottery terminal that is returned to players of that video lottery terminal.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Award” means the act, by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission, of approving the issuance of a video lottery operation license by the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to an applicant for the operation of video lottery terminals at a specified location.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Background investigation” means a security, criminal, and credit investigation of a person who applies for or who is granted a license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Career offender” means a person whose behavior is pursued in an occupational manner or context for the purpose of economic gain and who utilizes methods that are deemed by the Commission as criminal violations inimical to the interest of the State.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Career offender cartel” means a group of persons who operate together as career offenders.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Central monitor and control system” means a central system provided to and controlled by the Commission to which video lottery terminals communicate for purposes of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>information retrieval;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>retrieval of the win and loss determination from video lottery terminals; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>programs to activate and disable video lottery terminals.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Central Repository” means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <text>“Commission” means the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="l"> <text>“Control” means the authority to direct the management and policies of an applicant or licensee.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <text>“Costs” means, unless the context otherwise requires, the expenses incurred by the Commission in the administration of this subtitle, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the costs of leasing or the capitalized cost of purchasing the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the costs to repair and maintain the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software to the extent these costs are not included in the costs of leasing or purchasing the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the costs of testing and examination of video lottery terminals and the central monitor and control system; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the costs of performing background investigations and other related activities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="n"> <text>“Family” means spouse, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, fathers–in–law, mothers–in–law, daughters–in–law, sons–in–law, brothers–in–law, and sisters–in–law, whether by whole blood or half blood, marriage, adoption, or natural relationship.</text> </level> <level label="o"> <text>“Institutional investor” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a retirement fund administered by a public agency for the exclusive benefit of federal, state, or local public employees;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a collective investment trust organized by banks under Part 9 of the rules of the Comptroller of the Currency;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a closed end investment trust;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>a chartered or licensed life insurance company;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>a property and casualty insurance company;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>a banking or other chartered or licensed lending institution;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>an investment advisor registered under the Investment Advisors Act of 1940; or</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>any other person registered in any foreign jurisdiction and regulated in accordance with a statute of any foreign jurisdiction that the Commission determines to be substantially similar to that regulated by the Investment Company Act of 1940 or the Investment Advisors Act of 1940.</text> </level> </level> <level label="p"> <text>“License” means, unless the context otherwise requires, a license required under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="q"> <text>“Licensee” means an applicant who has been issued a license required under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="r"> <text>“Manufacturer” means a person:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>that is engaged in the business of designing, building, constructing, assembling, manufacturing, or distributing a central monitor and control system, video lottery terminals, associated equipment or software, or the cabinet in which a video lottery terminal is housed;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>that produces a product that is intended for sale, lease, or other assignment to the Commission or a licensee; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>that contracts with the Commission or a licensee for the sale, lease, or other assignment of a product described in item (i) of this item; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>that is engaged in the business of designing, building, constructing, assembling, manufacturing, or distributing table games or table game equipment;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>that produces a product related to table games that is intended for sale, lease, or other assignment to a licensee; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>that contracts with a licensee for the sale, lease, or other assignment of a product described in item (i) of this item.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="s"> <text>“Own” means having a beneficial or proprietary interest of at least 5% in the property or business of an applicant or licensee.</text> </level> <level label="t"> <text>“Player” means an individual who plays a video lottery terminal at a video lottery facility licensed by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="u"> <level label="1"> <text>“Proceeds” means the part of the amount of money bet through video lottery terminals and table games that is not returned to successful players but is otherwise allocated under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>“Proceeds” may be reduced consistent with regulations adopted by the Commission in accordance with subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If a video lottery operation licensee returns to successful players more than the amount of money bet through video lottery terminals or table games on a given day, the video lottery licensee may subtract that amount from the proceeds of up to 7 following days.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, “proceeds” does not include money given away by a video lottery operation licensee as free promotional play and used by players to bet in a video lottery terminal or at a table game.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>After the first fiscal year of operations, the exclusion specified in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph may not exceed a percentage established by the Commission by regulation of the proceeds received from video lottery terminals and table games in the prior fiscal year by the video lottery operation licensee under § 9–1A–27(a)(2), (c)(1)(ii), and (d)(1) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>“Progressive jackpot” means a prize that increases as one or more video lottery terminals are connected to a progressive jackpot system.</text> </level> <level label="w"> <text>“Progressive jackpot system” means a system capable of linking one or more video lottery terminals in one or more licensed facilities and offering one or more common progressive jackpots.</text> </level> <level label="w–1"> <text>“Racing licensee” means the holder of a license issued by the State Racing Commission to hold a race meeting in the State under Title 11 of the Business Regulation Article.</text> </level> <level label="w–2"> <text>“Table game equipment” means equipment that is related to the operation of table games and that is owned or leased by the video lottery facility and located on the video lottery facility’s premises.</text> </level> <level label="w–3"> <text>“Table games” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>roulette, baccarat, blackjack, craps, big six wheel, minibaccarat, poker, pai gow poker, and sic bo, or any variation and composites of such games; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>gaming tournaments in which players compete against one another in one or more of the games authorized under item (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="x"> <text>“Video lottery” means gaming or betting conducted using a video lottery terminal.</text> </level> <level label="y"> <text>“Video lottery destination location” means a location that is eligible for or has been awarded in the manner provided by law a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="z"> <text>“Video lottery employee” means an employee of a person who holds a license.</text> </level> <level label="aa"> <text>“Video lottery facility” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a facility at which players play video lottery terminals and table games under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a casino for the purposes of the federal Bank Secrecy Act of 1970 and its related regulations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="bb"> <text>“Video lottery operation license” means a license awarded by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission and issued by the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to a person that allows players to play video lottery terminals and table games.</text> </level> <level label="cc"> <text>“Video lottery operator” means a person licensed to operate a video lottery facility under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="dd"> <level label="1"> <text>“Video lottery terminal” means any machine or other device that, on insertion of a bill, coin, token, voucher, ticket, coupon, or similar item, or on payment of any consideration:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is available to play or simulate the play of any game of chance in which the results, including the options available to the player, are randomly determined by the machine or other device; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>by the element of chance, may deliver or entitle the player who operates the machine or device to receive cash, premiums, merchandise, tokens, or anything of value, whether the payout is made automatically from the device or in any other manner.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Video lottery terminal” includes a machine or device:</text> <level label="i"> <text>that does not directly dispense money, tokens, or anything of value to winning players; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>described under paragraph (1) of this subsection that uses an electronic credit system making the deposit of bills, coins, or tokens unnecessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Video lottery terminal” does not include an authorized slot machine operated by an eligible organization under Title 12, Subtitle 3 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>This subtitle is statewide and exclusive in its effect.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall regulate the operation of video lottery terminals in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency shall provide assistance to the Commission in the performance of the Commission’s duties under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Commission shall regulate the operation of table games in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>This subtitle authorizes the operation of video lottery terminals that are connected to a central monitor and control system owned or leased by the State that allows the Commission to monitor a video lottery terminal.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall provide and operate a single central monitor and control system into which all licensed video lottery terminals must be connected.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The central monitor and control system shall be capable of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>continuously monitoring, retrieving, and auditing the operations, financial data, and program information of all video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>allowing the Commission to account for all money inserted in and payouts made from any video lottery terminal;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>disabling from operation or play any video lottery terminal as the Commission deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>supporting and monitoring a progressive jackpot system capable of operating one or more progressive jackpots; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>providing any other function that the Commission considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The central monitor and control system shall employ a widely accepted gaming industry communications protocol to facilitate the ability of video lottery terminal manufacturers to communicate with the statewide system.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Commission may not allow a video lottery operation licensee to have access to, or obtain information from, the central monitor and control system.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Only if the access does not in any way affect the integrity or security of the central monitor and control system, may the Commission allow a video lottery operation licensee to have access to the central monitor and control system that allows the licensee to obtain information pertinent to the legitimate operation of a video lottery facility.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Only a person with a video lottery operation license issued under this subtitle may offer a video lottery terminal and table games for public use in the State under this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, any additional forms or expansion of commercial gaming other than as expressly provided in this subtitle and Subtitle 1E of this title are prohibited.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This subtitle, including the authority provided to the Commission under this subtitle, does not apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>lotteries conducted under Subtitle 1 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>wagering on horse racing conducted under Title 11 of the Business Regulation Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the operation of slot machines as provided under Titles 12 and 13 of the Criminal Law Article; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>other gaming conducted under Titles 12 and 13 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>promptly and in reasonable order, make a determination on license applications and causes affecting the granting or renewal of licenses under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>issue licenses in accordance with this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>after a hearing, promptly and in reasonable order, make a determination on the suspension or revocation of licenses under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>except as provided in subsection (b)(1)(v) of this section, after a hearing, suspend or revoke as applicable the license of a licensee who has a license suspended or revoked in another state;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>conduct hearings concerning civil violations of this subtitle or regulations issued under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>collect application, license, and other fees to cover the administrative costs of this subtitle related to licensing;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>deposit application, license, and other fees to a bank account that the State Treasurer designates to the credit of the State Lottery Fund to cover the administrative costs of this subtitle related to licensing;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>levy and collect civil penalties for civil violations of the provisions of this subtitle or regulations issued under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>be present at a video lottery operation through its employees and agents at any time during the operation of any video lottery terminal or table game for the purpose of certifying revenue from the video lottery terminals or table games, receiving complaints from the public, and conducting any other investigation into the operation of the video lottery terminals or table games and the maintenance of the video lottery terminals and associated equipment and software and table games and table game equipment as the Commission may deem necessary and proper;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>review and rule on any complaint by a licensee regarding any investigative procedures of the Commission that are unnecessarily disruptive of video lottery and table games operations; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>authorize a holder of a video lottery operation license under this subtitle to offer table games to the public in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses at any place within the State in the course of any investigation or hearing under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>administer oaths and require testimony under oath before the Commission in the course of any investigation or hearing conducted under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>serve or cause to be served its process or notices in a manner provided for service of process in civil actions under the Maryland Rules;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>propound written interrogatories; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>suspend a license on an emergency basis if it is determined that the suspension is necessary to protect the State’s gaming program against a serious and imminent risk of harm to its integrity, security, or profitability.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the Commission suspends a license on an emergency basis, the Commission shall schedule promptly a hearing on the suspension and provide the licensee with written notice of the suspension.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Commission may delegate to the Director its authority under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, the Commission shall conduct a hearing in the same manner as specified in Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations that include the following specific provisions in accordance with this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>establishing the methods and forms of application that an applicant for any license required under this subtitle shall follow and complete before consideration of the application by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establishing the methods, procedures, and form for delivery of information from an applicant or licensee concerning any person’s family, habits, character, associates, criminal record, business activities, and financial affairs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>establishing the procedures for the fingerprinting of an applicant for any license required under this subtitle or other methods of identification that may be necessary in the judgment of the Commission to accomplish effective enforcement of the provisions of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>establishing the manner and procedure of hearings conducted by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>establishing the manner and method of collection of taxes, fees, and civil penalties;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>defining and limiting the areas of operation for video lottery terminals and table games, rules of video lottery terminals and table games, odds for video lottery terminals and table games, the types and values of promotional items that may be given away to encourage play of video lottery terminals and table games, the method of operation of the video lottery terminals and table games, and the number and types of table games;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>regulating the practice and procedures for negotiable transactions involving players, including limitations on the circumstances and amounts of negotiable transactions and the establishment of forms and procedures for negotiable instrument transactions, redemptions, and consolidations;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>prescribing the grounds and procedures for reprimands of licensees or the revocation or suspension of licenses issued under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>governing the manufacture, distribution, sale, and servicing of video lottery terminals and table games;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>establishing the procedures, forms, and methods of management controls;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>providing for minimum uniform standards of accountancy methods, procedures, and forms as are necessary to ensure consistency, comparability, and effective disclosure of all financial information, including percentages of profit for video lottery terminals and table games;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>establishing periodic financial reports and the form of the reports, including an annual audit prepared by a certified public accountant licensed to do business in the State, disclosing whether the accounts, records, and control procedures examined are maintained by the video lottery operation licensee as required by this subtitle and the regulations that shall be issued under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>requiring licensees under this subtitle to demonstrate and maintain financial viability;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>ensuring that the operation of video lottery terminals, table games, and video lottery facilities is conducted legally;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>establishing procedures for the removal of video lottery terminals from a video lottery facility;</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>determining the suitability of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the use of any variations or composites of the table games authorized under this subtitle after an appropriate test or experimental period under terms and conditions that the Commission may deem appropriate; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any other game that is compatible with the public interest and suitable for casino use after an appropriate test or experimental period deemed appropriate by the Commission;</text> </level> </level> <level label="17"> <text>establishing procedures for accounting for all money exchanged at each table game;</text> </level> <level label="18"> <text>establishing the number of video lottery terminals that may be removed from a video lottery facility to accommodate table games;</text> </level> <level label="19"> <text>requiring each video lottery operator under this subtitle to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>establish procedures to offer players the opportunity to donate coins, when receiving cash on payout, to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund established under § 9–913 of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>attach donation boxes near the exits from a video lottery facility, with the proceeds dedicated to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="20"> <text>otherwise carrying out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall by regulation require an applicant or licensee to file a bond for the benefit of the State for the faithful performance of the requirements imposed by this subtitle and any regulations issued under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An applicant or licensee shall obtain and submit satisfactory proof of the bond to the Commission before a license is issued or reissued.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The bonds furnished may be applied by the Commission to the payment of an unpaid liability of the licensee.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Commission by regulation may exempt categories of video lottery and table game employees who are not directly involved in the video lottery and table game operations from the requirements of this subsection if the Commission determines that the requirement is not necessary in order to protect the public interest or accomplish the policies established under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall promptly and thoroughly investigate all applications and enforce this subtitle and regulations that are adopted under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission and its employees and agents shall have the authority, without notice and without warrant, to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>inspect and examine all premises in which video lottery and table game operations under this subtitle are conducted or any authorized table games, table game equipment, video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, or associated equipment and software designed, built, constructed, assembled, manufactured, sold, distributed, or serviced, or in which records of those activities are prepared or maintained;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>inspect any table games, table game equipment, video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, or associated equipment and software in, about, on, or around those premises;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>seize summarily and remove from those premises and impound, or assume physical control of, any table games, table game equipment, video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, or associated equipment and software for the purposes of examination and inspection;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>inspect, examine, and audit books, records, and documents concerning a licensee’s video lottery and table game operations, including the financial records of a parent corporation, subsidiary corporation, or similar business entity; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>seize, impound, or assume physical control of books, records, ledgers, cash boxes and their contents, a counting room or its equipment, or other physical objects relating to video lottery or table game operations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A licensee shall authorize any other person having financial records relating to the licensee to provide those records to the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Commission may not charge a video lottery facility a fee to offer table games.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Commission may not permit the operation of video lottery terminals in Prince George’s County before the earlier of July 1, 2016, or 30 months after the video lottery facility in Baltimore City is open to the public.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-05" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission established under § 9–1A–36 of this subtitle may not:</text> <level label="1"> <text>award more than six video lottery operation licenses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>award more than 16,500 video lottery terminals for operation at video lottery facilities in the State;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>subject to the requirements of § 9–1A–36(h) and (i) of this subtitle, award more than 4,750 terminals for operation at any video lottery facility; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>for a location in Allegany County:</text> <level label="i"> <text>award a video lottery operation license to an applicant that does not agree to purchase the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>notwithstanding § 9–1A–36(i)(2) of this subtitle, award more than 1,500 video lottery terminals for operation at a video lottery facility in Allegany County.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An owner or operator of a video lottery destination location described under § 9–1A–01 of this subtitle may submit an application for a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A video lottery operation license issued under this subtitle is not valid at a geographic location other than the geographic location authorized in the license awarded by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission and issued by the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>In this subsection, “owner” includes any type of owner or beneficiary of a business entity, including an officer, director, principal employee, partner, investor, stockholder, or beneficial owner of the business entity and, notwithstanding any other provisions of this subtitle, including a person having any ownership interest regardless of the percentage of ownership interest.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An individual or business entity may not own an interest in more than one video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member of the Senate of Maryland or the House of Delegates may not be an owner or an employee of any business entity that holds a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an individual or business entity may enter into a management agreement to operate a facility located in Allegany County that it does not own, subject to the approval of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission and the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a holder of a video lottery operation license may apply to the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission for an additional license provided that the application required under § 9–1A–36 of this subtitle includes a plan for divesting from the video lottery operation license held on the date of the application.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-06" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in §§ 10–14A–03 and 10–14B–03 of this article, the following persons shall be licensed under this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a video lottery operator;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a manufacturer;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a person not licensed under item (1) or (2) of this subsection who manages, operates, supplies, provides security for, or provides service, maintenance, or repairs for video lottery terminals or table games; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a video lottery employee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may by regulation require a person that contracts with a licensee and the person’s employees to obtain a license under this subtitle if the Commission determines that the licensing requirements are necessary in order to protect the public interest and accomplish the policies established by this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection or §§ 10–14A–03 and 10–14B–03 of this article, unless an individual holds a valid license issued under this subtitle, the individual may not be employed by a licensee as a video lottery employee.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission by regulation may exempt categories of video lottery employees who are not directly involved in the video lottery operations from the requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection if the Commission determines that the requirement is not necessary in order to protect the public interest or accomplish the policies established under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>For a period of 1 year after the individual’s service on the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission or the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission ends, a licensee may not employ, or enter into a financial relationship with, an individual who has been a member of the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission or the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-07" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in § 9–1A–36 of this subtitle, an applicant for a license shall submit to the Commission an application:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in the form that the Commission requires; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on or before the date set by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection does not apply to license fees for a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall by regulation establish a fee for a license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An applicant shall submit the fee with the application.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall have the affirmative responsibility to establish by clear and convincing evidence the person’s qualifications.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall provide information required by this subtitle and satisfy requests for information relating to qualifications in the form specified by the Commission or the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission, if applicable.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall consent to inspections, searches, and seizures authorized by this subtitle or regulations issued under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall have the continuing duty to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide assistance or information required by the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>cooperate in an inquiry, investigation, or hearing conducted by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On issuance of a formal request to answer or produce information, evidence, or testimony, if an applicant or licensee refuses to comply, the application or license of the person may be denied, suspended, or revoked by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>If the applicant is an individual, the applicant shall be photographed and fingerprinted for identification and investigation purposes.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If the applicant is not an individual, the Commission by regulation may establish the categories of individuals who shall be photographed and fingerprinted for identification and investigation purposes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall have a duty to inform the Commission of an act or omission that the person knows or should know constitutes a violation of this subtitle or the regulations issued under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Applicants and licensees may not discriminate against a person who in good faith informs the Commission of an act or omission that the person believes constitutes a violation of this subtitle or the regulations issued under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall produce information, documentation, and assurances to establish the following qualification criteria by clear and convincing evidence:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the financial stability, integrity, and responsibility of the applicant or licensee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the integrity of any financial backers, investors, mortgagees, bondholders, and holders of other evidences of indebtedness that bear a relation to the application;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the applicant’s or licensee’s good character, honesty, and integrity;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>sufficient business ability and experience of the applicant or licensee; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the applicant or licensee has entered into a labor peace agreement with each labor organization that is actively engaged in representing or attempting to represent video lottery and hospitality industry workers in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the labor peace agreement is valid and enforceable under 29 U.S.C. § 158;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the labor peace agreement protects the State’s revenues by prohibiting the labor organization and its members from engaging in picketing, work stoppages, boycotts, and any other economic interference with the operation of the video lottery facility within the first 5 years of the effective date of the video lottery operation license; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the labor peace agreement applies to all operations at the video lottery facility that are conducted by a lessee or tenant or under a management agreement.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>On the filing of an application for any license required under this subtitle and any supplemental information required by the Commission, the Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>conduct a background investigation under § 9–1A–20 of this subtitle on the qualifications of the applicant and any person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if the applicant is applying for a video lottery operation license, conduct a hearing on the qualifications of the applicant and any person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may refer an application for a license to an approved vendor under § 9–1A–20 of this subtitle to conduct the background investigation for the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Except for a video lottery operation license, after receiving the results of the background investigation, the Commission may either grant a license to an applicant whom the Commission determines to be qualified or deny the license to an applicant whom the Commission determines to be not qualified or disqualified.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an application for a license is denied, the Commission shall prepare and file an order denying the license with a statement of the reasons for the denial, including the specific findings of fact.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Except for a video lottery operation license as provided in § 9–1A–13 of this subtitle, if satisfied that an applicant is qualified to receive a license, and on tender of all required application, license, and other fees and taxes, and any bond required under § 9–1A–04(e) of this subtitle, the Commission shall issue a license for a term of 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may stagger the terms of licenses.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>An individual may not knowingly give false information or make a material misstatement in an application required for any license under this subtitle or in any supplemental information required by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An individual who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-08" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to other information required by this subtitle, a business entity applying for a video lottery operation license shall provide the following information:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the organization, financial structure, and nature of all businesses operated by the business entity;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the names, personal employment, and, when applicable, criminal histories of the officers, directors, partners, and principal employees of the business entity;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the names of all holding, intermediary, and subsidiary companies or other similar business entities of the business entity;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the organization, financial structure, and nature of all businesses operated by the business entity’s holding, intermediary, and subsidiary companies or other similar business entities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the rights and privileges acquired by the holders of different classes of authorized securities, partnership interests, or other similar ownership interests of the business entity and its holding, intermediary, and subsidiary companies or other similar business entities;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the terms on which the securities, partnership interests, or other similar ownership interests have been or are to be offered;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the terms and conditions of all outstanding loans, mortgages, trust deeds, pledges, or other indebtedness or security devices utilized by the business entity;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the extent of the equity security holding in the business entity of the officers, directors, partners, and underwriters and their remuneration in the form of salary, wages, fees, or otherwise;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the names of persons other than the directors and officers who occupy positions specified by the Commission or whose compensation exceeds an amount determined by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the names of persons who own or control the business entity;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>a description of all bonus and profit sharing arrangements;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>copies of management and service contracts; and</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>a listing of stock options.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If a business entity that applies for a video lottery operation license is a subsidiary or if a business entity holding a video lottery operation license is to become a subsidiary, each holding company and each intermediary company with respect to the business entity shall, as a condition of the subsidiary acquiring or retaining a video lottery operation license:</text> <level label="1"> <text>qualify to do business in the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>furnish the Commission with the information required under subsection (a) of this section and other information that the Commission or the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may require.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, an individual applying for a video lottery operation license shall provide, to the extent applicable to an individual, the information required under subsection (a) of this section in the form required by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may waive the requirement to provide the information required under subsection (a) of this section for an institutional investor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Commission shall disqualify an applicant for a video lottery operation license on the basis of any of the following criteria:</text> <level label="1"> <text>failure of the applicant to prove by clear and convincing evidence that the applicant and each person who owns or controls the application are qualified under the provisions of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>failure of the applicant or any person required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license to provide information, documentation, and assurances required by this subtitle or requested by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>failure of the applicant or any person required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license to reveal any fact material to qualification;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>supplying, by the applicant or any person required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license, information that is untrue or misleading as to a material fact concerning the qualification criteria;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>conviction of the applicant or of any person required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license of an offense under the laws of any jurisdiction that is a criminal offense involving moral turpitude or a gambling offense;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>current prosecution of the applicant or a person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license for an offense described under item (5) of this subsection, provided that, at the request of the applicant, the Commission may defer its decision on the application during the pendency of the charge;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>pursuit by the applicant or a person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license of economic gain in an occupational manner or context that is in violation of the laws of the State, if the pursuit creates a reasonable belief that participation of the applicant in video lottery operations would be inimical to the policies of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>identification of the applicant or a person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license as a career offender or a member of a career offender cartel or an associate of a career offender or career offender cartel in a manner that creates a reasonable belief that the association is of a nature as to be inimical to the policies of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>commission of an act within the prior 7 years by the applicant or a person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license that would constitute an offense described under item (5) of this subsection, even if the act was not prosecuted or may not be prosecuted under the criminal laws of any jurisdiction; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>willful defiance by the applicant or a person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license of a legislative investigatory body or other official investigatory body of the United States or a jurisdiction within the United States when the body is engaged in the investigation of crimes relating to gambling, official corruption, or organized crime activity.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-09" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>As a condition of eligibility for funding under § 9–1A–29 of this subtitle, a racing licensee shall:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>for Rosecroft Raceway, for any year that funding is provided, conduct a minimum of 60 annual live racing days unless otherwise agreed to by the racing licensee and the organization that represents the majority of licensed standardbred owners and trainers in the State or unless the racing licensee is prevented by weather, acts of God, or other circumstances beyond the racing licensee’s control; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for Ocean Downs Racetrack, for any year that funding is provided, conduct a minimum of 40 annual live racing days unless otherwise agreed to by the racing licensee and the organization that represents the majority of licensed standardbred owners and trainers in the State or unless the racing licensee is prevented by weather, acts of God, or other circumstances beyond the racing licensee’s control; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if the racing licensee receives funding without providing and expending a matching fund, conduct live racing days in the State for at least 10 years after the construction plan required under § 9–1A–29(e) of this subtitle is complete;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>develop and submit to the State Racing Commission a multiyear plan to improve the quality and marketing of horse racing at racetrack locations owned or operated by the racing licensee in Maryland, which shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>goals, indicators, and timelines for specific actions that will be taken by the racing licensee to improve the quality and marketing of the horse racing industry in Maryland; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a master plan for capital improvements that reflects, at a minimum:</text> <level label="1"> <text>commitments that have been made to the State Racing Commission;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>updates to any prior master plan specifically identifying capital improvements and expenditures made on or after January 1, 2018; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an ongoing investment in capital maintenance and improvements in the horse racing facilities; and</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>for each year that funding is requested, spend at least the following minimum amounts for capital maintenance and improvements, which may include amounts provided as a matching fund if the racing licensee elects to provide and expend a matching fund under § 9–1A–29(e)(2) of this subtitle:</text> <level label="i"> <text>for Rosecroft Raceway, $300,000; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for Ocean Downs Racetrack, $300,000.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>As part of the capital maintenance and improvement items in the plan submitted under subsection (a)(2) of this section, a racing licensee shall include any improvements necessary to ensure that the condition of any part of the racetrack facility where individuals reside is satisfactory for human habitation and meets minimum housing and sanitation standards in the county where the facility is located.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The plans required under subsection (a) of this section shall also be provided to the Department of General Services and to the Legislative Policy Committee of the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-10" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The findings and evidence relied on by the General Assembly for the continuation of the Minority Business Enterprise Program under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article are incorporated in this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>To the extent practicable and authorized by the United States Constitution, a licensee shall comply with the State’s Minority Business Enterprise Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>An applicant or a licensee is subject to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the requirement to put forth a good faith effort to meet the minority business participation goal established for a unit by the Special Secretary for the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs under § 14–302(a)(1)(ii) of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any other corresponding provisions of law under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The minority business participation goal shall apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>construction related to video lottery terminals; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>procurement related to the operation of video lottery terminals, including procurement of equipment and ongoing services.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the county in which a video lottery facility will be located has higher minority business participation requirements than the State as described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the applicant shall meet the county’s minority business participation requirements to the extent possible.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A county in which a video lottery facility will be located may impose local business, local minority business participation, and local hiring requirements to the extent authorized by local law and permitted by the United States Constitution.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Any collective bargaining agreement or agreements, including a project labor agreement or a neutrality agreement, entered into by an applicant or licensee may not negate the requirements of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If an applicant for employment at a video lottery facility believes that the applicant has been discriminated against in the employment process, the applicant may appeal the employment decision to the local human relations board in the county where the facility is located.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Notwithstanding any collective bargaining agreement or agreements, a licensee shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide health insurance coverage for its employees; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>give a preference to hiring qualified employees from the communities within 10 miles of the video lottery facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>A licensee shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide retirement benefits for its employees; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if the licensee is a racetrack licensee, provide retirement benefits to its video lottery operation employees that are equivalent to the level of benefits provided to the racetrack employees who are eligible under the Maryland Racetrack Employees Pension Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Notwithstanding any collective bargaining agreement or agreements, if the licensee is a racetrack location, the licensee shall provide health insurance coverage to all employees of the racetrack, including the employees of the racetrack on the backstretch of the racetrack.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall ensure that a video lottery operation licensee complies with the requirements of subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section as a condition of holding the video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs shall monitor a licensee’s compliance with subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs shall report to the Commission at least every 6 months on the compliance of licensees with subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs reports that a licensee is not in compliance with subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section, the Commission may take immediate action to ensure the compliance of the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On or after July 1, 2031, the provisions of subsections (b)(1) and (2) and (c) of this section and any regulations adopted under subsections (b)(1) and (2) and (c) of this section shall be of no effect and may not be enforced.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-11" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Any video lottery operation licenses not issued or awarded for a location authorized under this subtitle shall automatically revert to the State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, a licensee shall commence operation of video lottery terminals in a permanent facility at the location for which the video lottery operation license has been awarded within 18 months after the license is awarded.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>On a determination by the Commission that extenuating circumstances exist that are beyond the control of an awardee and have prevented the awardee from complying with the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Commission may allow the awardee an extension of 6 months to comply with the requirements.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Commission may not grant more than two extensions to an awardee under this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, the Commission may allow an awardee of a video lottery operation license in Prince George’s County to commence operation in a permanent facility more than 18 months, but not more than 30 months, after the license is awarded.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If a video lottery operation awardee fails to comply with the requirements of this subsection, the license awarded to the awardee shall be revoked and shall automatically revert to the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Nothing in this subtitle may be construed to prohibit a video lottery operation licensee that is issued a license from beginning video lottery terminal or table game operations in a temporary facility that meets the minimum requirements established in regulations adopted by the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1) of this subsection, a video lottery operation licensee shall be operational in a permanent facility no later than 30 months after the award of the video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, a video lottery facility in Prince George’s County may not begin video lottery terminal or table game operations in a temporary facility or in a structure, including a hotel or conference center, that exists on August 15, 2012.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>For a location in Allegany County, if video lottery terminals are permanently located in the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort, the licensee shall restrict public access to the video lottery facility from the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraphs (ii) and (iii) of this paragraph, for a location in Allegany County, if video lottery terminals are permanently located in the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort and existing meeting space is eliminated as a result of the video lottery terminals, the licensee shall provide for meeting space that is accessible from the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort within 36 months after issuance of the video lottery operation license, subject to the approval of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission and the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The licensee shall restrict public access to the video lottery facility from any meeting space provided under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The licensee may not begin table game operations until the licensee submits evidence satisfactory to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission that replacement work has begun to provide meeting space equal to or greater than the eliminated meeting space.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-12" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <text>If a video lottery operation licensee contracts with another person other than an employee of the video lottery operation licensee to provide any of the services related to operating a video lottery facility, each person and each other person who owns or controls the person or management and supervisory personnel and other principal employees of the person shall qualify under the standards and provisions set forth in §§ 9–1A–07 and 9–1A–08 of this subtitle for video lottery operation licensees.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-13" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>The initial term of a video lottery operation license is 15 years from the date on which the video lottery facility is issued the license by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>During the initial term of a video lottery operation license, the licensee shall provide the Commission with an annual update of the information required under this subtitle for the issuance of a license by the date set by the Commission in regulations and on the form required by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>At least 2 years but not more than 5 years before the expiration of the initial 15–year license term or a renewal term of a video lottery operation license, the licensee shall file with the Commission a notice of intent to apply for renewal of the license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection applies to the first renewal of a video lottery operation license following the initial 15–year term and each subsequent renewal of the license.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A renewal of a video lottery operation license is for a term of 15 years.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At least 1 year but not more than 5 years before the end of the initial 15–year license term or a renewal term, a video lottery operation licensee may file an application to renew a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>On proper application for renewal of a video lottery operation license, the Commission shall renew the license unless the Commission finds that the licensee is no longer qualified under this subtitle to hold a license.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Before denying an application under this subsection, the Commission shall provide the video lottery operation licensee an opportunity for a hearing.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>For each 5–year period of the 15–year term, the video lottery operation licensee shall pay a fee equal to 0.75% of the average annual proceeds from the operation of video lottery terminals and table games at the video lottery facility for the preceding 3–year period, to be paid in equal annual installments.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The video lottery operation licensee shall pay each installment:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for the first year of the 15–year term, on the effective date of the renewed license; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for the remaining 14 years of the 15–year term, if the licensee remains qualified to hold a license under this subtitle, on the date of the anniversary of the effective date of the renewed license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The Commission shall pay the renewal license fees submitted under this paragraph to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>If a licensee has its license revoked or otherwise surrenders the license, the video lottery operation license reverts to the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-14" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Unless an individual holds a valid video lottery employee license or temporary video lottery employee license issued by the Commission, the individual may not be employed by a video lottery operation licensee as a video lottery employee.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Before issuance of a video lottery employee license, an applicant shall provide sufficient information, documentation, and assurances that the Commission may require.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall deny a video lottery employee license to an applicant who is disqualified due to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the applicant’s failure to prove the applicant’s good character, honesty, and integrity;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the applicant’s lack of expertise or training to be a video lottery employee;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the applicant’s conviction, active parole, or probation for any crime involving moral turpitude or gambling under the laws of the United States or any state within the prior 7 years;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the applicant’s current prosecution for any crime involving moral turpitude or gambling under the laws of the United States or any state, but, at the request of the applicant, the Commission may defer a decision on the application during the pendency of the charge;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>pursuit by the applicant of economic gain in an occupational manner or context that is in violation of the laws of the State, if the pursuit creates a reasonable belief that participation of the applicant in video lottery operations would be inimical to the policies of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>identification of the applicant as a career offender or a member of a career offender cartel or an associate of a career offender or career offender cartel in a manner that creates a reasonable belief that the association is of a nature as to be inimical to the policies of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>willful defiance by the applicant or a person that is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license of a legislative investigatory body or other official investigatory body of the United States or a jurisdiction within the United States when the body is engaged in the investigation of crimes relating to gambling, official corruption, or organized crime activity; and</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>any other reason established in the regulations of the Commission as a reason for denying a license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>In this paragraph, “problem–solving court” means a problem–solving court under the Office of Problem–Solving Courts, or a comparable program from another state court system, that provides a collaborative, therapeutic, nonadversarial approach to judicial supervision of eligible offenders, including a drug court, DUI court, veterans’ court, mental health court, or reentry court.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>An applicant is not disqualified from licensure under paragraph (1)(iii) or (iv) of this subsection if the conviction, active parole, probation, or prosecution involves a nonviolent misdemeanor offense, other than a crime involving gambling, for which the applicant participated in and completed a problem–solving court program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An applicant is not disqualified from licensure under paragraph (1)(iii) or (iv) of this subsection if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the conviction, active parole, probation, or prosecution involves a nonviolent misdemeanor offense, other than a crime involving gambling;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the applicant will not be employed by the video lottery operation licensee in the operation of gaming or security; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the video lottery operation licensee requests that the Commission issue the license notwithstanding the conviction, active parole, probation, or prosecution.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may issue a temporary video lottery employee license that authorizes an applicant to be employed as a video lottery employee.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>may issue a temporary license to an applicant who:</text> <level label="1"> <text>files a completed application for a video lottery employee license; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>acknowledges, in writing, that the State is not financially responsible for any consequences resulting from termination of the temporary license under paragraph (4) of this subsection; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>may not issue a temporary license to an applicant who:</text> <level label="1"> <text>has an immediately known present or prior activity, criminal record, reputation, habit, or association that would disqualify the applicant from holding a video lottery employee license under this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>poses a serious imminent risk of harm to the integrity, security, or profitability of the State’s gaming program.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>A temporary license issued under this subsection expires 180 days after the date of issue.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Commission may extend a temporary license for an additional 180 days.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Notwithstanding § 9–1A–04(a)(3) of this subtitle, the Commission may terminate without a hearing the temporary license of an applicant for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>failure to pay a required fee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>failure to submit required information to the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>failure to comply with the Commission’s staff requests;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>engaging in conduct that obstructs the Commission from completing the applicant’s background investigation; or</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>any other reason established in the regulations of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If the Commission denies the application for a video lottery employee license of an applicant who has been issued a temporary license, the applicant immediately shall surrender the applicant’s temporary license identification to the Commission and cease working as a video lottery employee.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-15" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Unless a manufacturer holds a valid manufacturer’s license issued by the Commission before conducting business with a licensee or the State, the manufacturer may not offer any video lottery terminal, central monitor and control system, associated equipment or software, or goods or services that directly relate to the operation of video lottery terminals under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Unless a manufacturer holds a valid manufacturer’s license issued by the Commission before conducting business with a licensee, the manufacturer may not offer any table games or table game equipment under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each manufacturer, and each person that owns or controls the manufacturer or management and supervisory personnel and other principal employees of the manufacturer, shall qualify under the standards and provisions set forth in §§ 9–1A–07 and 9–1A–08 of this subtitle for video lottery operation licensees.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as provided in § 9–1A–16(a) of this subtitle, the Commission may not grant an exemption or waiver of any licensing requirement to an applicant for or holder of a manufacturer’s license.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A manufacturer of the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software shall manufacture or distribute the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software that meet specifications and procedures established by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A manufacturer of table games and table game equipment shall manufacture or distribute the table games and table game equipment that meet specifications and procedures established by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-16" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>For all licenses required under this subtitle other than a video lottery operation license, if an applicant or licensee holds a valid license in another state and the Commission determines that the licensing standards of the other state are comprehensive, thorough, and provide similar adequate safeguards to those provided in this subtitle, the Commission may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>waive some or all of the requirements of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>issue a license to a person having a similar license in another state.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, on the request of an applicant, the Commission may grant an exemption or waiver of a licensing requirement or grounds for denial of a license if the Commission determines that the requirement or grounds for denial of a license as applied to the applicant are not necessary in order to protect the public interest or accomplish the policies established by this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On granting to an applicant an exemption or waiver of a licensing requirement or grounds for denial of a license, or at any time after a waiver or exemption has been granted, the Commission may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>limit or place restrictions on the exemption or waiver as the Commission considers necessary in the public interest; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>require the person that is granted the exemption or waiver to cooperate with the Commission and to provide the Commission with any additional information required by the Commission as a condition of the waiver or exemption.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may not waive any of the requirements of this subtitle related to a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-17" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply to the renewal of a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to the power of the Commission to deny, revoke, or suspend a license, a license in force may be renewed by the Commission for the next succeeding license period on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>proper application for renewal; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payment of all required application, license, and other fees and taxes.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-18" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Because the public has a vital interest in video lottery and table game operations and has established a limited exception to the policy of the State concerning gambling for private gain, participation in video lottery and table game operations by a licensee under this subtitle shall be deemed a revocable privilege conditioned on the proper and continued qualification of the licensee and on the discharge of the affirmative responsibility of each licensee to provide to the regulatory and investigatory authorities under this subtitle or any other provision of law, any assistance and information necessary to assure that the policies declared by this subtitle are achieved.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Consistent with the policy described in subsection (a) of this section, it is the intent of this section to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>preclude:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the creation of any property right in any license required under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the accrual of any monetary value to the privilege of participation in video lottery operations; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the transfer of any license issued under this subtitle; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>require that participation in video lottery operations be conditioned solely on the continuing individual qualifications of the person who seeks the privilege.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-19" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a license issued under this subtitle may not be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>transferred or assigned to another person; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>pledged as collateral.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A licensee may not sell or otherwise transfer more than 5% of the legal or beneficial interests of the licensee unless:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the licensee notifies the Commission of the proposed sale or transfer;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Commission determines that the proposed buyer or transferee meets the requirements of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the transfer is consistent with the policies and intent of § 9–1A–18 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Unless the Commission needs a longer time to determine whether the proposed buyer or transferee meets the requirements of this subtitle, if the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection are not satisfied, a license issued under this subtitle is automatically revoked 90 days after the sale or transfer.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-20" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “approved vendor” means a person that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>specializes in conducting background investigations;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>has experience in the gaming industry; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>obtains the approval of the Commission to conduct background investigations under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission or an approved vendor shall conduct a background investigation in a timely manner of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an applicant for a video lottery operation license;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a video lottery operator; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other applicant the Commission considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>An applicant shall provide the Commission or an approved vendor with all information the Commission requires in order to conduct a background investigation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Failure to provide timely or accurate information is grounds for the Commission to deny an application.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission or an approved vendor shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and a national criminal history records check for the applicant, if required by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>As part of the application for a criminal history records check, the Commission or an approved vendor shall submit to the Central Repository:</text> <level label="i"> <text>two complete sets of the applicant’s legible fingerprints taken on forms approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the fee authorized under § 10–221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the mandatory processing fee required by Interpol for an international criminal history records check.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In accordance with §§ 10–201 through 10–234 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the applicant and the Commission a printed statement of the applicant’s criminal history record information.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall be confidential;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>may not be redisseminated; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>may be used only in connection with the issuance of a license required under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the printed statement issued by the Central Repository as provided in § 10–223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>After completion of a background investigation conducted under this section, an approved vendor shall promptly forward the results of the investigation to the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations specifying the factors used to determine whether an applicant for a license must submit to an international criminal history records check.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-21" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The central monitor and control system and the associated equipment and software shall be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>owned or leased by the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>under the control of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraphs (ii) and (iii) of this paragraph, each video lottery terminal device and the associated equipment and software shall be owned or leased by the video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, for a video lottery facility located in Allegany County or Worcester County, each video lottery terminal device and the associated equipment and software shall be owned or leased by the video lottery facility after March 31, 2020.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A video lottery facility located in Allegany County or Worcester County may apply to the Commission for permission to assume ownership or the right to lease each video lottery terminal device used by the facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>For a video lottery facility located in Anne Arundel County or Cecil County, the Commission shall own each video lottery terminal device and the associated equipment and software through March 31, 2015.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The savings that are attributable to requiring video lottery facilities to own or lease the video lottery terminals and associated equipment and software shall be appropriated to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle in the year in which the spending would have otherwise occurred.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to the Commission’s ability to cancel or alter the contract in the event one or more eligible applicants for a video lottery facility fail to obtain a license, the Commission shall contract with one or more licensed manufacturers for the lease or purchase of the video lottery terminals, central monitor and control system, and associated equipment and software authorized under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations governing the sale or lease of video lottery terminals by the Commission under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may adopt regulations to provide incentives to licensed manufacturers based on the performance of the manufacturers’ video lottery terminals.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Commission shall establish a process enabling a licensee and the Commission to select video lottery terminals from a list approved by the Commission, subject to available funds, for use in the licensee’s video lottery facility.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-22" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a video lottery terminal shall have an average payout percentage of at least 85%.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may by regulation establish an average payout percentage of more than 88% but not more than 95% for video lottery operation licensees.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may approve an average payout percentage of more than 95% for the video lottery terminals at a video lottery facility.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-23" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>A video lottery facility may operate 24 hours a day.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee shall be responsible for all marketing, advertising, and promotion for its video lottery operation.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Any State lottery games that are offered by or through the Commission may be offered for sale at a video lottery facility in the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-24" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Commission shall ensure that a video lottery operation licensee complies with the requirements of this section as a condition of holding the video lottery operation license.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The county alcoholic beverages licensing authority for the county in which a video lottery facility is located shall ensure that the video lottery operation licensee complies with the requirements of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, a video lottery operation licensee may not provide food or alcoholic beverages to individuals at no cost.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Any food or alcoholic beverages offered by a video lottery operation licensee for sale to individuals may be offered only at prices that are determined by the county alcoholic beverages licensing authority to be commensurate with the price of similar types of food and alcoholic beverages at restaurants in the county in which the video lottery facility is located.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee may provide food at no cost to individuals to the same extent allowed under § 6–310 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article for a person engaged in the sale or barter of spirituous, malt, or intoxicating liquors and licensed under the laws of Maryland.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a video lottery operation licensee shall ensure that intoxicated individuals and individuals under the age of 21 years are not allowed to play video lottery terminals or table games and are not allowed in areas of the video lottery facility where video lottery terminals or table games are located.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee may allow a video lottery employee who is an adult to enter or remain in an area within the video lottery facility that is designated for table game or video lottery terminal activities if the video lottery employee is working.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>By regulation, the Commission shall provide for the establishment of a list of individuals who are to be mandatorily excluded or ejected by a video lottery operation licensee from any video lottery operation licensed under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The regulations under this subsection shall define the standards for exclusion or ejection and shall include standards relating to individuals:</text> <level label="i"> <text>who are career offenders as defined by regulations adopted by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>who have been convicted of a criminal offense under the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States that is a criminal offense involving moral turpitude or a gambling offense; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>whose presence in the establishment of a licensee would be adverse to the interest of the State, the licensee, or the person.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Commission may impose sanctions on a licensee in accordance with this subtitle if the licensee knowingly fails to exclude or eject from the premises of the licensee an individual placed by the Commission on the list of individuals to be excluded or ejected.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>An order under this subsection is subject to judicial review.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>By regulation, the Commission shall adopt measures that are intended to reduce or mitigate the effects of problem gambling.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The regulations shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>include establishment of a voluntary exclusion list of individuals with gambling problems who have requested to be excluded from any video lottery operation licensed under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>provide a simple mechanism for an individual who is sober and informed to request placement on the voluntary exclusion list for a specified period of time.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee may not permit an individual on the voluntary exclusion list to enter into the video lottery facility or to play a video lottery terminal.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Commission may impose sanctions on a licensee in accordance with this subtitle if the licensee knowingly fails to exclude from the premises of the licensee an individual on the voluntary exclusion list.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>In order to protect the public interest, the regulations shall include provisions that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>limit the number and location of and maximum withdrawal amounts from automated teller machines;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>prohibit authorized automated teller machines from accepting electronic benefit cards, debit cards, or similar negotiable instruments issued by the Department of Human Services for the purpose of accessing temporary cash assistance;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>require payouts above an amount adopted by the Commission to be made by check;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>require conspicuous disclosures related to the payout of video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>limit the dollar amount that video lottery terminals will accept;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>prohibit the use of specified negotiable instruments at video lottery facilities and the use of credit cards, debit cards, and similar devices in video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>provide consumers with a record of video lottery terminal spending levels if marketing measures are utilized that track consumer spending at video lottery facilities;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>prohibit consumers from cashing paychecks at video lottery facilities; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>prohibit video lottery operation licensees from engaging in or contracting with another to engage in predatory marketing practices.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee may not, directly or indirectly, interfere with, hinder, obstruct, impede, or take any action to delay the implementation or establishment of a video lottery facility by any other licensee or applicant for a video lottery operation license awarded or issued under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations, to the fullest extent allowed by the first amendment of the Constitution of the United States, to carry out the provisions of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The regulations adopted under this subsection shall include provisions:</text> <level label="1"> <text>that expressly prohibit:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>taking any of the actions described in paragraph (1) of this subsection relating to the issuance of required State or local governmental approvals for the establishment of a video lottery facility; or</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>providing funding or other material support to engage in any of the actions described in paragraph (1) of this subsection;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>that prohibit, as unlawful indirect conduct, activity:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>by an entity in which the licensee owns a beneficial or proprietary interest; or</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>by an entity in which an affiliate of the licensee owns a beneficial or proprietary interest; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>that allow the Commission to impose sanctions and penalties in accordance with § 9–1A–25 of this subtitle if a licensee knowingly violates paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-25" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission may deny a license to an applicant, reprimand or fine a licensee, or suspend or revoke a license for a violation of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a regulation adopted under this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a condition that the Commission sets.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>For each violation specified in subsection (a) of this section, the Commission may impose a penalty not exceeding $5,000.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each day that a person is in violation under this section shall be considered a separate violation.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>To determine the amount of the penalty imposed under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Commission shall consider:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the seriousness of the violation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the harm caused by the violation; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the good faith or lack of good faith of the person who committed the violation.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as otherwise expressly provided in this subtitle, nothing contained in this subtitle abrogates or limits the criminal laws of the State or limits the authority of the General Assembly to enact statutes establishing criminal offenses and penalties relating to video lottery operations.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-26" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, all proceeds from the operation of video lottery terminals and table games shall be electronically transferred daily into the State Lottery Fund established under Subtitle 1 of this title and distributed as provided under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply on a day when State government is closed.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The amount from the proceeds of video lottery terminals to be paid to video lottery operation licensees under § 9–1A–27(a)(2), (7), and (8), (b), and (c)(1)(ii) and (2) of this subtitle shall be retained by the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall account to the Comptroller for all of the revenue under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The proceeds from video lottery terminals and table games shall be under the control of the Comptroller and, except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, shall be distributed as provided under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A jackpot won at a video lottery terminal that is not claimed by the winner within 182 days after the jackpot is won shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>become the property of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be distributed as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <level label="2"> <text>5% to the Small, Minority, and Women–Owned Businesses Account established under § 5–1501 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="9"> <text>5% in local impact grants, in accordance with § 9–1A–31 of this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>10% to the Purse Dedication Account established under § 9–1A–28 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <level label="1"> <text>5% to the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account established under § 9–1A–29 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the remainder to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The admissions and amusement tax may not be imposed on any proceeds from the operation of video lottery terminals and table games.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations that allow a video lottery operation licensee to reduce the amount of proceeds when a video lottery operation licensee returns to successful players more than the amount of money bet through video lottery terminals or table games on a given day that are consistent with § 9–1A–01(u) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-27" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this section and § 9–1A–26(a)(3) of this subtitle, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Commission, the Comptroller shall pay the following amounts from the proceeds of video lottery terminals at each video lottery facility:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>on or before March 31, 2015, 2% to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency for costs as defined in § 9–1A–01 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>beginning April 1, 2015, 1% to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency for costs as defined in § 9–1A–01 of this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to the video lottery operation licensee, the percentage stated in the accepted application for the location, not to exceed, except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, 33%;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="5"> <text>5% in local impact grants, in accordance with § 9–1A–31 of this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>6% to the Purse Dedication Account established under § 9–1A–28 of this subtitle, not to exceed a total of $100,000,000 to the Account annually;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>until the issuance of a video lottery operation license in Baltimore City, 1.75% to the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account established under § 9–1A–29 of this subtitle and distributed in accordance with that section; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>on or after the issuance of a video lottery operation license in Baltimore City, 1% to the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account established under § 9–1A–29 of this subtitle and distributed in accordance with that section, not to exceed a total of $20,000,000 to the Account annually;</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="1"> <text>5% to be distributed:</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>$5,000,000 to the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Fund established under § 5–515 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the remainder to the Small, Minority, and Women–Owned Businesses Account established under § 5–1501 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <level label="i"> <text>except as provided in items (ii) and (iii) of this item, 6% to the video lottery operation licensee if the video lottery operation licensee owns or leases each video lottery terminal device and the associated equipment and software;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>8% to the video lottery operation licensee in Anne Arundel County; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>10% to the video lottery operation licensee in Allegany County or Worcester County if the video lottery operation licensee assumes ownership or the right to lease each video lottery terminal device and the associated equipment and software used by the facility before January 1, 2019;</text> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>beginning after the issuance of a video lottery operation license for a video lottery facility in Prince George’s County, 8% to the video lottery operation licensee in Anne Arundel County and 7% to the licensee in Baltimore City for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>marketing, advertising, and promotional costs required under § 9–1A–23 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>capital improvements at the video lottery facilities;</text> </level> </level> <level label="9"> <text>to each video lottery operation licensee, an amount equal to 20% of the amount paid by the video lottery licensee under § 9–1A–13 of this subtitle, for costs required under § 9–1A–23 of this subtitle for marketing, advertising, and promotions that exclusively target out–of–state audiences; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the remainder to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Beginning July 1, 2013, for a video lottery facility in Worcester County with less than 1,000 video lottery terminals, the percentage in subsection (a)(2) of this section is equal to 43% provided that each year an amount equivalent to 2.5% of the proceeds from video lottery terminals at the video lottery facility is spent on capital improvements at the video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>After the first 10 years of operations at a video lottery facility in Allegany County, the percentage in subsection (a)(2) of this section is equal to 48% provided that each year an amount equivalent to 2.5% of the proceeds from video lottery terminals at the video lottery facility is spent on capital improvements at the video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>For a video lottery facility in Prince George’s County, the percentage in subsection (a)(2) of this section stated in the accepted application for the location may not exceed 38%.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Beginning July 1, 2023, for a video lottery facility in Cecil County, the percentage in subsection (a)(2) of this section is equal to 36% provided that each year an amount equivalent to 3% of the proceeds from video lottery terminals at the video lottery facility is spent on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>marketing, advertising, and promotional costs required under § 9–1A–23 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>capital improvements at the video lottery facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Beginning July 1, 2023, for a video lottery facility in Baltimore City, the percentage in subsection (a)(2) of this section is equal to 34% provided that each year an amount equivalent to 1% of the proceeds from video lottery terminals at the video lottery facility is spent on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>marketing, advertising, and promotional costs required under § 9–1A–23 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>capital improvements at the video lottery facility.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>For the first 10 years of operations at a video lottery facility in Allegany County, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Commission, the Comptroller shall pay the following amounts from the proceeds of video lottery terminals at a video lottery facility in Allegany County:</text> <level label="i"> <text>1% to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency for costs as defined in § 9–1A–01 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>to the video lottery operation licensee, the percentage stated in the accepted application for the location, not to exceed 50%;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <level label="3"> <text>75% in local impact grants, in accordance with § 9–1A–31 of this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="iv"> <level label="2"> <text>5% to the Purse Dedication Account established under § 9–1A–28 of this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <level label="1"> <text>except as provided in items 2 and 3 of this item, 0.75% to the Small, Minority, and Women–Owned Businesses Account established under § 5–1501 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for fiscal year 2018, 0.75% to the General Fund to pay a portion of the costs of the grants provided under Chapters 6 and 607 of the Acts of the General Assembly of 2017; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>for fiscal years 2019 and 2020, 0.75% to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the remainder to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>After the first 10 years of operations at a video lottery facility in Allegany County, the proceeds generated at the facility in Allegany County shall be allocated as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Each video lottery operation licensee shall retain 80% of the proceeds of table games at the video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Commission, the Comptroller shall pay the following amounts from the proceeds of table games at each video lottery facility:</text> <level label="i"> <text>5% to the local jurisdiction in which the video lottery facility is located, provided that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>50% of the proceeds paid to Baltimore City shall be used to fund school construction projects; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>50% of the proceeds paid to Baltimore City shall be used to fund the maintenance, operation, and construction of recreational facilities; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>15% to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>If the costs of the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency are less than the proceeds specified in subsection (a)(1) of this section, any amount not distributed to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency shall be paid to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The costs of the Commission shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>On or before December 1, 2019, and every year thereafter, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on the distribution of proceeds of video lottery terminals to licensees for the procurement of video lottery terminals; marketing, advertising, and promotional costs; and capital improvements and the distributions of local impact grants to jurisdictions under § 9–1A–31 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Baltimore City shall report to the Baltimore City Senate and House Delegations by December 31 of each year as to the distribution and use of the funds provided under subsection (d) of this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-28" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Purse Dedication Account under the authority of the State Racing Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Account shall receive money as required under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Money in the Account shall be invested and reinvested by the Treasurer and interest and earnings shall accrue to the Account.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Comptroller shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>account for the Account;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for fiscal year 2022 and each fiscal year thereafter, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Maryland Stadium Authority, issue a warrant to pay out $5,000,000, from the portion of the proceeds in the Account allocated to thoroughbred purses under subsection (c)(1) of this section, to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–120 of this title until any bonds, debt, or other financial instruments issued or made available by the Maryland Stadium Authority for a racing facility under Title 10, Subtitle 6 of the Economic Development Article reach final maturity;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>for fiscal year 2028 and each fiscal year thereafter, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, issue a warrant to pay out $2,000,000, from the portion of the proceeds in the Account allocated to thoroughbred purses under subsection (c)(1) of this section, to the Corporation established under Title 10, Subtitle 1 of the Economic Development Article until any bonds, debt, or other financial instruments issued or made available by the Corporation for a training facility site and other improvements under Title 10, Subtitle 6 of the Economic Development Article reach final maturity;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>beginning with the first full fiscal year of thoroughbred racing operations at the reconstructed Pimlico racing facility, for any fiscal year that the thoroughbred racetrack operator reports an operating loss, inclusive of thoroughbred purse account contributions, in accordance with § 10–646.1 of the Economic Development Article, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Maryland Stadium Authority, issue a warrant to pay out the amount of the operating loss, from the portion of the proceeds in the Account allocated to thoroughbred purses under subsection (c)(1) of this section, to the thoroughbred racetrack operator; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the State Racing Commission, issue a warrant to pay out money from the Account in the manner provided under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Account is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (3)(ii) through (iv) of this subsection, expenditures from the Account shall only be made on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the State Racing Commission as provided under subsection (c) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Subject to subsections (d) and (e) of this section, the State Racing Commission shall allocate funds in the Account as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>80% to the thoroughbred industry; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>20% to the standardbred industry.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The amount of funds allocated to thoroughbred purses and the Maryland–bred Race Fund shall be allocated as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>89% to thoroughbred purses at the Pimlico Race Course, Laurel Park, the racecourse in Allegany County, and the racecourse at Timonium; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>11% to the Maryland–bred Race Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The amount of funds allocated to standardbred purses and the Standardbred Race Fund shall be allocated as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>89% to standardbred purses at Rosecroft Raceway, Ocean Downs Race Course, and the racecourse in Allegany County, allocated based on the number of live racing days at each track location; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>11% to the Standardbred Race Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>From the amount provided to thoroughbred purses, the State Racing Commission shall pay an annual grant of $100,000 to Fair Hill, as defined under § 11–811 of the Business Regulation Article.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>Of the amount provided from the Purse Dedication Account under subsection (e)(1) of this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>for Ocean Downs Race Course, an amount equal to but not exceeding $30,000 multiplied by the total number of live racing days held during the calendar year may be used to provide financial assistance for operating losses incurred during that calendar year, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, to support a minimum of 40 annual live racing days unless the racing licensee is prevented by weather, acts of God, or other circumstances beyond the racing licensee’s control; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for Rosecroft Raceway, up to $1,200,000 each year for calendar years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 may be used to provide financial assistance for operating losses, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, to support a minimum of 40 annual live racing days unless the racing licensee is prevented by weather, acts of God, or other circumstances beyond the racing licensee’s control.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Funds received by Ocean Downs Race Course or Rosecroft Raceway under paragraph (1) of this subsection may not be used to contribute to a campaign finance entity under Title 13 of the Election Law Article or make an independent expenditure as defined in § 1–101 of the Election Law Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>To obtain operating assistance under this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a racing licensee at Ocean Downs Race Course or Rosecroft Raceway may apply to the Secretary of Labor for the reimbursement of expenditures made by the racing licensee to conduct the annual live racing schedule; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a racing licensee at Rosecroft Raceway shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>agree to rehire workers employed at the facility prior to the end of live racing on June 27, 2008; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>recognize collective bargaining agreements that were in place as of June 1, 2008.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>On the completion of the review of the application by a certified public accountant, the Secretary may authorize the reimbursement of expenditures by the racing licensee that are necessary to conduct the annual live racing schedule.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Expenditures eligible for reimbursement under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall include the ordinary and reasonable costs of conducting the race meetings, pari–mutuel wagering, and stabling activities of the racing licensee, net of ordinary income and receipts.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The reimbursement calculation under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph may not include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>extraordinary income and expense–related items, including extraordinary litigation expenses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>lobbying fees;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>capital investments, including predevelopment costs; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>prior year adjustments and claims.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>All costs associated with the racing licensee’s application shall be paid by the racing licensee.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>In support of the racing licensee’s application and request for reimbursement submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the racing licensee shall provide to the Secretary:</text> <level label="i"> <text>monthly financial information requested by the Secretary, in a form satisfactory to the Secretary; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an annual audited financial statement.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A racing licensee may not receive assistance under this section while the racing licensee is a party to a proceeding challenging the issuance or denial of a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>The provisions of this section may not be construed to apply to the racecourse in Allegany County until horse racing begins at that racecourse.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>On or before December 1, 2014, the State Racing Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>conduct a study to determine the impact of the Purse Dedication Account on the racing industry in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make recommendations to the General Assembly regarding the continuation of the Purse Dedication Account and the amount of money distributed to the Purse Dedication Account.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-28.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “open purse” means any purse, except for one offered in a race funded by the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The organization that represents a majority of the standardbred owners and trainers in the State may apply to the Secretary of Labor for the reimbursement of expenditures listed in subsection (c) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>From the amount allocated to the Purse Dedication Account under § 9–1A–28(e)(1) of this subtitle, the Secretary may allocate to the organization that represents a majority of the standardbred owners and trainers in the State an amount for the reimbursement of expenditures requested under this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The amount allocated by the Secretary under paragraph (2) of this subsection, in addition to any amount agreed on under a contractual arrangement with track licensees, may not exceed 2% of all open purses.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Expenditures eligible for reimbursement under subsection (b) of this section include the ordinary and reasonable costs of establishing and maintaining the following programs for standardbred owners and trainers:</text> <level label="1"> <text>counseling programs to address issues such as drug addiction, depression, marital problems, and financial problems;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>preventive care programs such as health fairs, mammogram screenings, and flu vaccination clinics;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>group health, life, and on–track drivers’ insurance plans; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>retirement programs.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The reimbursement calculation under subsection (c) of this section may not include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>extraordinary income and expense–related items, including extraordinary litigation expenses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>lobbying fees;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>capital investments, including predevelopment costs; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>prior year adjustments and claims.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>In support of an application and a request for reimbursement submitted under subsection (b) of this section, the organization shall provide to the Secretary of Labor in a form satisfactory to the Secretary:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an itemized statement under oath for the preceding fiscal year of receipts from all sources and of all disbursements, including salaries of all officers, attorney fees, and lobbying expenses; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a certified audit by a certified public accountant of the financial records of the organization for the preceding fiscal year.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-29" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Racetrack Facility Renewal Account under the authority of the State Racing Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Account shall receive money as required under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle for the first 16 years of operations at each video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Money in the Account shall be invested and reinvested by the Treasurer and interest and earnings shall accrue to the Account.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Comptroller shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>account for the Account; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the State Racing Commission, issue a warrant to pay out money from the Account in the manner provided under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Account is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Expenditures from the Account shall only be made on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the State Racing Commission as provided under subsection (c) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the State Racing Commission may use the services of a certified public accountant to review an eligible request for or the expenditures of a grant under this section.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A racing licensee that has requested a grant under this section shall reimburse the State Racing Commission for any expenditures for services under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (d)(1) of this section, funds from the Account shall be used to provide a grant to the racing licensee for racetrack facility capital construction and improvements.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The amount of funds made available from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account shall be allocated as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>for fiscal year 2021, 80% to be deposited in the Racing and Community Development Facilities Fund established under § 10–657.3 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for fiscal year 2022 and thereafter, 80% to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–120 of this title; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, 20% to Rosecroft Raceway and Ocean Downs Race Course according to a formula established in regulations adopted by the State Racing Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the amount available to Rosecroft Raceway from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account under paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the unencumbered fund balance, including accrued interest, existing as of June 30, 2020, shall be transferred to the Racing and Community Development Facilities Fund established under § 10–646.3 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, for fiscal year 2021 and each fiscal year thereafter, $200,000 shall be transferred annually to Employ Prince George’s, Inc. for workforce development and small, minority, and women–owned business development.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>It is the intent of the General Assembly that the funds transferred to Employ Prince George’s, Inc. shall supplement, and not supplant, funds otherwise available for Employ Prince George’s, Inc.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If Employ Prince George’s, Inc. is unable to expend the funds transferred under paragraph (2)(ii) of this subsection during the 12–month period after which Employ Prince George’s, Inc. received the funds, Employ Prince George’s, Inc. shall partner with similar organizations located within Prince George’s County to expend the balance of the funds from that period to encourage workforce development and small, minority, and women–owned business development.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>For fiscal year 2026, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $4,500,000 to the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account to be made available to Rosecroft Raceway.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>In order to obtain a grant, a racing licensee shall submit a capital construction plan to be completed within a specified time frame to the State Racing Commission for approval.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to § 9–1A–09(a)(1)(ii) of this subtitle and the approval of the grant for the capital construction plan by the State Racing Commission, the racing licensee may provide and expend a matching fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>After a grant has been provided under this section, the State Racing Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in consultation with the Department of General Services, monitor the implementation of the approved capital construction plan;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>on written request from the grantee, in consultation with the Department of General Services, certify in writing that the grantee has completed the approved capital construction plan; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>make provisions for recapture of grant money if the capital construction plan is not completed within the time frame approved by the State Racing Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If a racing licensee receives a grant for a capital construction plan without expending a matching fund and does not complete the capital construction plan or conduct live racing days in the State for at least 10 years after the construction plan is complete, the State Racing Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>if the racing licensee does not conduct live racing days in the State for at least 10 years after the construction plan is complete, calculate the amount to be repaid on a pro rata basis and recapture the grant money; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>recapture the grant money.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Any unencumbered funds remaining in the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account after the last video lottery facility to open has been in operation for 16 years shall be paid to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Racing Commission shall adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this section, including regulations to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>address minimum criteria for the types of improvements to be made by the racing licensee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>establish a formula to allocate funds under subsection (d)(2) of this section between Rosecroft Raceway and Ocean Downs Race Course; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>establish guidelines for a racing licensee that requests a grant for a capital construction plan without expending a matching fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>If Rosecroft Raceway is closed and no longer used for live racing, 75% of the unencumbered fund balance, including accrued interest, of the amount available to Rosecroft Raceway from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account under subsection (d)(1)(ii) of this section shall be made available to Ocean Downs Race Course.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If Ocean Downs Race Course is closed and no longer used for live racing, 75% of the unencumbered fund balance, including accrued interest, of the amount available to Ocean Downs from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account under subsection (d)(1)(ii) of this section shall be made available to Rosecroft Raceway.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>The provisions of this section may not be construed to apply to the racecourse in Allegany County.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-30" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “supplemental funding” means funding to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>ensure access to public education that allows children in the State to compete in the global economy of the future;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide funding for high–quality early education programs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>provide opportunities for public school students to participate in career and technical education programs that lead to an identified job skill or certificate;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>allow students to obtain college credit and degrees while in high school at no cost to the students;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>support the advancement and professionalization of educators in public education; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>maintain, renovate, or construct public schools.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is an Education Trust Fund which is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>There shall be credited to the Education Trust Fund:</text> <level label="i"> <text>all proceeds allocated to the Fund under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>all judgments paid to the Fund under § 11–210 of the Education Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>renewal license fees paid to the Fund under § 9–1A–13 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Money in the Education Trust Fund shall be invested and reinvested by the Treasurer, and interest and earnings shall accrue to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Money in the Education Trust Fund shall be used for the following purposes, in the following order of priority:</text> <level label="1"> <text>required deposits under § 10–649(g) of the Economic Development Article into the Supplemental Public School Construction Financing Fund established under § 10–658 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>required funding for public elementary and secondary education, through continuation of the funding and formulas established under the programs commonly known as the Bridge to Excellence in Public Schools Act, first enacted by Chapter 288 of the Acts of the General Assembly of 2002, including the funding for regional differences in the cost of education under § 5–202(f) of the Education Article; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>supplemental funding for education and public schools.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor’s annual budget submission shall include not less than the following amounts as supplemental funding for public education from the Education Trust Fund:</text> <level label="i"> <text>for fiscal year 2020, $125,000,000;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for fiscal year 2021, $250,000,000;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>for fiscal year 2022, $375,000,000; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>for fiscal year 2023 and each fiscal year thereafter, 100% of the funds.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The supplemental funding required under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be in addition to the State funding and formulas provided through the funding formulas established in the Bridge to Excellence in Public Schools Act of 2002 for prekindergarten through grade 12 in public schools.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Beginning in fiscal year 2020 and in each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall identify in the annual budget as introduced how the revenue required under this subsection is being used to supplement and not supplant the spending on public education for prekindergarten through grade 12.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Expenditures from the Education Trust Fund shall be made each fiscal year in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-31" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (8) of this subsection, the local impact grants provided under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle shall be distributed as provided in this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The following amounts shall be distributed to the following jurisdictions:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Allegany County – $200,000;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Cecil County – $130,000;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Town of Forest Heights – $120,000;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>Town of Perryville – $70,000; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>Worcester County – $200,000.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The remaining funds for local impact grants shall be distributed in the following manner:</text> <level label="i"> <text>82% to the local jurisdictions with video lottery facilities, based on each jurisdiction’s percentage of overall gross revenues from video lottery terminals; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, for operations at a video lottery facility starting in fiscal year 2012 and ending in fiscal year 2032, 18% to Baltimore City with the Pimlico Community Development Authority acting as the local development council in accordance with subsection (d) of this section, to be distributed primarily for capital projects benefiting economic and community development in the following manner:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="A"> <text>for fiscal years 2012 through 2023, at least 75% in a manner that is consistent with the Park Heights Master Plan; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="B"> <text>for fiscal years 2024 through 2032, 85% in a manner that is consistent with the Park Heights Master Plan; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the remainder dedicated to the needs of:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>any census blockgroup that Baltimore City identifies as being located partly or entirely within 1 mile of Pimlico Race Course but not within the boundaries of the Park Heights Master Plan in a manner that is consistent with adopted neighborhood priorities;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>any neighborhood included in the Northwest Community Planning Forum Strategic Neighborhood Action Plan in a manner that is consistent with the adopted Northwest Community Planning Forum Strategic Neighborhood Action Plan priorities; and</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>beginning after a video lottery operation license is issued to a video lottery facility in Baltimore City, any neighborhood within an area bounded by Liberty Heights Avenue, Northern Parkway, Druid Park Drive, and Wabash Avenue in a manner that is consistent with adopted neighborhood priorities.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Of the amount specified under paragraph (3)(ii) of this subsection:</text> <level label="1"> <text>$1,000,000 shall be provided annually to Prince George’s County to be used for public safety projects in the community within 5 miles surrounding Rosecroft Raceway;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>$500,000 shall be provided annually for impact aid to be distributed as provided under § 11–404(d) of the Business Regulation Article to help pay for facilities and services in communities within 3 miles of the Laurel Race Course;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>for fiscal years 2022 through 2032, $3,500,000 shall be provided annually to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–120 of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>for fiscal years 2021 through 2032, the greater of $2,400,000 or 24% of the total amount distributed for the fiscal year under paragraph (3)(ii) of this subsection shall be provided annually to Park Heights Renaissance, Inc.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Legislative Policy Committee shall report its findings and recommendations concerning the advisability of the continuation of the distribution of funds after fiscal year 2032 to the Comptroller and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly, on or before November 1, 2030.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Prince George’s County, and the City of Laurel shall report to the Legislative Policy Committee, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, by December 31 of each year as to the distribution of the funds provided under this section.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Baltimore City shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>except as provided in subsection (b)(3)(i) of this section, establish a schedule for the distribution and expenditure of funds provided under this section; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>provide a quarterly report to the Legislative Policy Committee, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on the distribution of the funds provided under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <level label="i"> <text>The distribution under paragraph (3)(i) of this subsection to Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, and Prince George’s County equals the sum of the amounts to be distributed to Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, and Prince George’s County divided by three.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>Notwithstanding subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the amount distributed to Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City under paragraph (3)(i) of this subsection may not be less than the amount received in the fiscal year before the video lottery operation license for a video lottery facility in Prince George’s County was issued.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any amount distributed to Anne Arundel County or Baltimore City as required under subsubparagraph 1 of this subparagraph shall be paid from the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–120(b) of this title.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Beginning after a video lottery operation license is issued to a video lottery facility in Baltimore City, 100% of the local impact grants provided under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle from the proceeds of the video lottery facilities located in Allegany, Cecil, and Worcester counties shall be distributed to the local jurisdictions in which those video lottery facilities are located.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection and subject to paragraph (4) of this subsection, local impact grants provided under subsection (a)(3)(i) of this section shall be used for improvements primarily in the communities in immediate proximity to the video lottery facilities and may be used for the following purposes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>infrastructure improvements;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>facilities;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>public safety;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>sanitation;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>economic and community development, including housing; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>other public services and improvements.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, in Allegany County, local impact grants provided under subsection (a)(3)(i) of this section may be used:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for purposes listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection throughout the county; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to pay down the debt incurred by the county in the construction and related costs for the golf course, lodge, and other improvements in Rocky Gap State Park.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>At least 20% of the local impact grants provided under subsection (a)(3)(i) of this section in Allegany County shall be used for capital projects for municipalities and nonprofit organizations in the county.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>In Baltimore City from the local impact grants provided under subsection (a)(3)(i) of this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2018, at least 50% shall be distributed directly to the South Baltimore Gateway Community Impact District Management Authority; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2033 and each fiscal year thereafter, $3,500,000 shall be paid annually to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–120 of this title until any bonds, debt, or other financial instruments issued or made available by the Maryland Stadium Authority for a racing facility under Title 10, Subtitle 6 of the Economic Development Article reach final maturity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (i)2 of this paragraph, local impact grants provided under subsection (a)(3)(i) of this section shall be used for improvements in the communities in immediate proximity to the video lottery facility and may be used for the following purposes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>infrastructure improvements;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>facilities;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>public safety;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>sanitation;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>economic and community development, including housing; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>other public services and improvements.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, in Prince George’s County, 40% of local impact grants provided under this section shall be used to address infrastructure needs related to Maryland Route 210 in Prince George’s County.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The amount of local impact grants used as provided in subsubparagraph 1 of this subparagraph may not exceed $15,000,000 in a fiscal year.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Prince George’s County may be reimbursed by the State for any money used as provided in this subparagraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In Prince George’s County, $125,000 of the local impact grants provided under this section shall be provided annually to be used in communities within 2.5 miles northeast of the video lottery facility in Prince George’s County.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>A local development council shall be established in each geographic area where a video lottery facility is located.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, a local development council shall consist of the following members appointed by the chief executive of the county in which the local development council is located, in consultation with the Senators and Delegates who represent the communities surrounding the facility and the respective county councils, city councils, or county commissioners:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one Senator who represents the district where the facility is located or the Senator’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>two Delegates who represent the districts where the communities surrounding the facility are located or the Delegates’ designees;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one representative of the video lottery operation licensee;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>seven residents of the communities in immediate proximity to the facility; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>four representatives of businesses or institutions located in immediate proximity to the facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>If the video lottery facility is at a racetrack location at the Ocean Downs Race Course:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the County Commissioners of Worcester County shall appoint the local development council;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Senator or the Senator’s designee shall serve as a member of the local development council; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Delegates or the Delegates’ designees shall serve as members of the local development council.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If the video lottery facility is located in Anne Arundel County, the County Executive shall appoint three Delegates who represent the district where the communities surrounding the facility are located or the Delegates’ designees.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Prior to any expenditure of local impact grant funds provided under § 9–1A–27 of this subtitle, a county or municipality shall develop, in consultation with the local development council, a multiyear plan for the expenditure of the local impact grant funds for services and improvements consistent with subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A county or municipality shall submit the plan to the local development council for review and comment before adopting the plan or expending any grant funds.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The local development council shall advise the county or municipality on the impact of the facility on the communities and the needs and priorities of the communities in immediate proximity to the facility.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>A local development council shall have 45 days to review, comment, and make recommendations on the plan required under this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph, on the request of a local development council, the county or municipality shall hold a public hearing on the plan.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Baltimore City shall hold a public hearing on the plan for the expenditure of funds allocated under subsection (a)(3)(ii) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A county or municipality shall make best efforts to accommodate the recommendations of the local development council and any testimony presented at the hearing before adopting the plan required under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A video lottery operation licensee shall provide to the local development council a master plan for the development of the site on which the video lottery facility will be located.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-32" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>The State may pay for the reasonable transportation costs to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>mitigate the impact on the communities in the immediate proximity to the facility; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make each video lottery facility accessible to the public.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A comprehensive transportation plan shall be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>developed by each county where a facility is located, in consultation with the local development council created under § 9–1A–31 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>approved by the Maryland Department of Transportation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The comprehensive transportation plan shall include provisions on roads and provisions regarding mass transit if mass transit is a substantial manner of transportation in the county where a video lottery facility is located.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Maryland Department of Transportation shall facilitate negotiations with affected communities to ensure the most practical ingress to and egress from the video lottery facility.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the Department of Transportation may pay for and undertake the improvement and enhancement of MD Route 589 from the intersection of MD Route 50 through MD Route 113 in Worcester County to address the needs related to traffic capacity, public safety, and esthetics in the area where a video lottery facility is located.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department may take the necessary steps to ensure that the plans for the improvements and enhancements to MD Route 589 are under development on or before the date on which the video lottery facility at the Worcester County location is operational and open to the public.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-33" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>establish an annual fee of $425, to be paid by each video lottery operation licensee, for each video lottery terminal operated by the licensee during the year, based on the maximum number of terminal positions in use during the year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>distribute the fees collected under item (i) of this paragraph to the Problem Gambling Fund established in subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may establish an annual fee of up to $500 for each table game to be paid by each video lottery operation licensee and distributed to the Problem Gambling Fund under subsection (b) of this section in order to ensure sufficient funds are available to provide requested services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>There is a Problem Gambling Fund in the Maryland Department of Health.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is primarily to provide funding for problem gambling treatment and prevention programs, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>inpatient and residential services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>outpatient services;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>intensive outpatient services;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>continuing care services;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>educational services;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>services for victims of domestic violence; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>other preventive or rehabilitative services or treatment.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Problem Gambling Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Money in the Problem Gambling Fund shall be invested and reinvested by the Treasurer, and interest and earnings shall accrue to the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (5) of this subsection, expenditures from the Problem Gambling Fund shall be made only by the Maryland Department of Health to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>establish a 24–hour hotline for compulsive and problem gamblers and to provide counseling and other support services for compulsive and problem gamblers;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>establish an outreach program for compulsive and problem gamblers, including individuals who requested placement on the voluntary exclusion list established by the Commission under § 9–1A–24 of this subtitle, for the purpose of participating in problem gambling treatment and prevention programs;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>develop and implement free or reduced cost problem gambling treatment and prevention programs, including the programs established under Title 19, Subtitle 8 of the Health – General Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>develop and implement free or reduced cost problem gambling treatment and prevention programs targeted at individuals with problem gambling issues related to sports wagering, participation in fantasy competitions, and other forms of wagering, whether legal or illegal, conducted in the State or through online means.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>After satisfying the requirements of paragraph (4) of this subsection, any unspent funds in the Problem Gambling Fund may be expended by the Maryland Department of Health on drug and other addiction treatment services.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Expenditures from the Problem Gambling Fund shall be made in accordance with an appropriation approved by the General Assembly in the annual State budget or by the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7–209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-34" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <text>The Commission shall make an annual report to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on the operation and finances of the video lottery facilities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>with the assistance of local police departments and the Department of State Police, detailing the crimes that occur within the communities surrounding a video lottery facility; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>on the attainment of minority business participation goals specified for licensees under § 9–1A–10(a)(1) and (2) of this subtitle and the efforts by licensees to maintain those goals.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-36" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission consists of seven members.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Three of the members shall be appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Two of the members shall be appointed by the President of the Senate but may not be members of the Senate of Maryland.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Two of the members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates but may not be members of the House.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The membership of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission appointed under this subsection should reflect the race, gender, and geographic diversity of the population of the State.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>One of the members appointed by the Governor shall be the chair of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Governor, in consultation with the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates, may remove a member of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission for inefficiency, misconduct in office, or neglect of duty.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A member of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be at least 21 years of age;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall be a citizen of the United States;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>shall be a resident of the State;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>shall be knowledgeable and experienced in fiscal matters and shall have at least 10 years substantial experience:</text> <level label="i"> <text>as an executive with fiduciary responsibilities in charge of a large organization or foundation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>in an academic field relating to finance or economics; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>as an economist, financial analyst, or accountant, or as a professional in a similar profession relating to fiscal matters or economics;</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>may not have been convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a serious crime or a crime that involves gambling or moral turpitude;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>may not have an official relationship to a person that holds a license under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>may not have any direct or indirect financial interest, ownership, or management, including holding any stocks, bonds, or other similar financial interests in any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, or lottery;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>may not receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities, including horse racing or lottery;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>may not have a beneficial interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of any independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>may not be an elected official of State or local government; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>shall file a financial disclosure statement with the State Ethics Commission in accordance with Title 15, Subtitle 6 of this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A member of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation for serving on the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall provide staff to the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may award not more than six video lottery operation licenses to qualified applicants, through a competitive process consistent with the process for competitive sealed proposals under Title 13 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may not award more than one video lottery operation license in a single county or Baltimore City.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>In order to qualify for a video lottery operation license under this section, a proposed video lottery facility shall be located in one of the following counties:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a location in Anne Arundel County, within 2 miles of MD Route 295;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a location in Cecil County, within 2 miles of Interstate 95;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a location on State property associated with the Rocky Gap State Park in Allegany County;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a location in Worcester County, within 1 mile of the intersection of Route 50 and Route 589;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a location in Baltimore City that is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>located:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>in a nonresidential area;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>within one–half mile of Interstate 95;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>within one–half mile of MD Route 295; and</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>on property that is owned by Baltimore City on the date on which the application for a video lottery operation license is submitted; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>not adjacent to or within one–quarter mile of property that is:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>zoned for residential use; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>used for a residential dwelling on the date the application for a video lottery operation license is submitted; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>a location in Prince George’s County within a 4–mile radius of the intersection of Bock Road and St. Barnabas Road.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Nothing in this subtitle may be construed to preempt the exclusive authority of the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission to award video lottery operation licenses in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>With respect to a video lottery operation license awarded to a location under paragraph (1)(iv) of this subsection, the holder of the video lottery operation license or any other person with a direct or indirect legal or financial interest in the Ocean Downs racetrack or video lottery facility may not build or operate a conference center or convention center, amusement park, amusement rides, arcade, or miniature golf course on or within 10 miles of the property owned by the holder of the license on which a video lottery facility is operated.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The prohibitions under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph apply to any subsequent holder of a video lottery operation license awarded under paragraph (1)(iv) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may not allocate more than the following number of video lottery terminals for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a location in Anne Arundel County – 4,750 video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a location in Baltimore City – 3,750 video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a location in Cecil County – 2,500 video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a location in Prince George’s County – 3,000 video lottery terminals;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a location in Rocky Gap State Park (Allegany County) –1,500 video lottery terminals; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>a location in Worcester County – 2,500 video lottery terminals.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may allocate video lottery terminals in a manner that is different from the allocation provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection on a determination that the market factors and other factors evaluated under subsection (k) of this section warrant the different allocation, provided that no one location may be allocated more than 4,750 video lottery terminals.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Beginning with the termination date for the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission and every 3 years thereafter, if all of the video lottery terminals authorized under this subtitle are not allocated or have been allocated but are not in regular operation, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission may allocate or reallocate video lottery terminals to video lottery operation licensees in a manner that ensures that the highest potential revenues are achieved.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In determining the highest potential revenues to be achieved by additional video lottery terminals at each potential location, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall consider the market performance of the existing video lottery terminals at each location.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, an application submitted for a video lottery operation license under this section shall include an initial license fee in the application of at least $3,000,000 for each 500 video lottery terminals included in the application.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>For an application submitted for a video lottery operation license in Allegany County, the initial license fee for up to 500 video lottery terminals shall be waived.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>All initial license fees submitted under this subtitle shall accrue to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>An application submitted for a video lottery operation license under this section shall provide for at least $25,000,000 in direct investment by the applicant in construction and related costs for each 500 video lottery terminals contained in the proposed application that shall be prorated based on the exact number of video lottery terminals contained in the application.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>For an application submitted for a video lottery operation license in Allegany County, the purchase price for the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort shall be counted in the calculation of the applicant’s direct investment under this paragraph, as determined by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <text>In awarding a video lottery operation license, the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission shall evaluate the factors under this subsection in the manner specified.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The decision by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission to award a license shall be weighted by 70% based on business and market factors including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the highest potential benefit and highest prospective total revenues to be derived by the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the potential revenues from a proposed location based on a market analysis;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the extent to which the proposed location encourages Maryland gaming participants to remain in the State;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the extent to which the proposed location demonstrates that the facility will be a substantial regional and national tourist destination;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the proposed facility capital construction plans and competitiveness of the proposed facility;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the amount of gross revenues to be allocated to the video lottery operator over the term of the license;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>the percent of ownership by entities meeting the definition of minority business enterprise under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>the extent to which the proposed location will preserve existing Maryland jobs and the number of net new jobs to be created; and</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>the contents of the licensee’s plan to achieve minority business participation goals in accordance with the requirements described under § 9–1A–10(a)(1) and (2) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The decision by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission to award a license shall be weighted by 15% based on economic development factors, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the anticipated wages and benefits for new jobs to be created; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any additional economic development planned in the area of the proposed facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The decision by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission to award a license shall be weighted by 15% based on location siting factors, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the existing transportation infrastructure surrounding the proposed facility location;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the negative impact, if any, of a proposed facility location on the surrounding residential community; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the need for additional public infrastructure expenditures at the proposed facility.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <level label="1"> <text>If an applicant is seeking investors in the entity applying for a video lottery operation license, it shall take the following steps before being awarded a license by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>make serious, good–faith efforts to solicit and interview a reasonable number of minority investors; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>as part of the application, submit a statement that lists the names and addresses of all minority investors interviewed and whether or not any of those investors have purchased an equity share in the entity submitting an application.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an applicant is awarded a license by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission, the applicant shall sign a memorandum of understanding with the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission that requires the awardee to again make serious, good–faith efforts to interview minority investors in any future attempts to raise venture capital or attract new investors to the entity awarded the license.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General, shall provide assistance to all potential applicants and potential minority investors to satisfy the requirements under paragraphs (1)(i) and (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="m"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may not award a video lottery operation license to a person that is not qualified under this section or this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="n"> <level label="1"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission shall refer to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission the name and all relevant information concerning a person that makes an application under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On receipt of the information in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall evaluate whether an applicant is qualified to hold a video lottery operation license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>On completion of its determination, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall notify the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission of its evaluation as to whether an applicant is qualified to hold a video lottery operation license under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="o"> <text>After an award of a video lottery operation license under this section, the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission shall notify the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission of the successful applicants.</text> </level> <level label="p"> <text>After an award of a video lottery operation license under this section, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>issue the video lottery operation license; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be responsible for all matters relating to regulation of the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="q"> <level label="1"> <text>An unsuccessful applicant for a video lottery operation license under this section may seek, under Title 15 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, review by the State Board of Contract Appeals of the awarding of the video lottery operation license by the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A proceeding under this subsection shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>take precedence on the Board’s docket;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be heard at the earliest practicable date; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>be expedited in every way.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="r"> <level label="1"> <text>Nothing in this subtitle may be construed to require the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission to award all six video lottery operation licenses authorized under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this subtitle, the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may not award a video lottery operation license under this subtitle unless the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission determines and declares that an applicant selected for award of the license is in the public interest and is consistent with the purposes of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="s"> <text>The Video Lottery Facility Location Commission may award a video lottery operation license that is revoked or surrendered utilizing the criteria established in this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="t"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission shall terminate on January 1, 2015.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Governor may reconstitute the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission, which shall include the appointment of new members based on the criteria established under subsections (b) and (c) of this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one year prior to the expiration of a video lottery operation license; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>following the revocation or surrender of a video lottery operation license.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-37" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may consider and make recommendations on proposed changes to this subtitle, Subtitle 1 of this title, and any provisions of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article that relate to the regulation of alcoholic beverages at video lottery facilities.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On request of the Governor or the presiding officer of either house of the General Assembly, the Commission shall consider and make recommendations on proposed changes to this subtitle, Subtitle 1 of this title, and any provisions of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article that relate to the regulation of alcoholic beverages at video lottery facilities.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A video lottery facility may request that the Commission consider and make recommendations on proposed changes to this subtitle and any provisions of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article that relate to the regulation of alcoholic beverages at video lottery facilities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may recommend or propose legislation on any matter within or related to the jurisdiction of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall review and comment on any legislation introduced during a session of the General Assembly that relates to a matter within the jurisdiction of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1A-38" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1A" subtitle_name="Video Lottery Terminals"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Joint Committee on Gaming Oversight.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Committee consists of the following eight members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>four members of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>four members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At least one Senator and one Delegate appointed under this subsection shall be a member of the minority party.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The members of the Committee serve at the pleasure of the presiding officer who appointed them.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The President and the Speaker of the House shall appoint a Senator and a Delegate, respectively, to serve as cochairs.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Committee shall examine:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the status of the State’s gaming program; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the implementation of new laws relating to gaming.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Committee shall make recommendations for potential improvements to the State’s gaming program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staffing for the Committee.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>A member of the Committee may not receive compensation for serving on the Committee, but is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>On or before December 31 of each year, the Committee shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1B-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1B" subtitle_name="Amusement Gaming Licenses"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commission” means the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>“Family entertainment center” means a location with a street address:</text> <level label="i"> <text>where a person or legal entity offers licensed amusement, merchandise, redemption, or skills–based devices for operation or play to individuals of all ages; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>that pays:</text> <level label="1"> <text>State and local property tax;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>sales and use tax; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>admissions and amusement tax.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Family entertainment center” does not include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a location without a street address;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the common area of a commercial building or facility; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a location that is operated primarily as a movie theater, bowling alley, skating rink, or any other similar establishment that displays or operates amusement devices only during the hours that the establishment makes its primary service or activity available to the public.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1B-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1B" subtitle_name="Amusement Gaming Licenses"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies only in Worcester County.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may issue an amusement gaming license to a family entertainment center that satisfies the requirements of this section.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A family entertainment center may apply to the Commission for a license under this section if the family entertainment center:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is located in a building that is owned, leased, or occupied by the family entertainment center for the primary purpose of providing amusement devices to the public;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>receives a majority of the gross receipts from amusement, merchandise, redemption, or skills–based devices;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>markets its business to families with children;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>offers amusement devices, arcade games, crane games, video games, interactive and sporting games, amusement rides, miniature golf, and bowling; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>is in continuous operation in the same geographic location since 1975.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A family entertainment center that holds an amusement gaming license issued under this section may operate:</text> <level label="i"> <text>skills–based devices that award noncash prizes of minimal value; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>up to 10 skills–based devices that award noncash prizes with a minimal wholesale value that does not exceed $599.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall determine the value of the noncash prizes that may be awarded by a skills–based device under paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A family entertainment center may not exchange merchandise for money.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission may determine that a device at a family entertainment center is an illegal gaming device and order the device to be removed from the family entertainment center.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>A family entertainment center that holds an amusement gaming license issued under this section may not transfer the license to another geographic location.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1C-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1C" subtitle_name="Gaming Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>Notwithstanding any other provision of the Criminal Law Article, an individual who is at least 21 years old may conduct a home game involving wagering if the home game:</text> <level label="1"> <text>except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, is limited to mah jong or a card game;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is conducted not more than once a week:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in the place of residence of an individual who may also participate as a player in the home game; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>in a common area of a residential property that is restricted to residents who are at least 55 years old;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>allows a player to compete directly against one or more other players who share a preexisting social relationship;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>does not allow an individual to benefit financially in any way, directly or indirectly, other than from the winnings accrued by participating as a player in the game;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>does not involve:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a player’s use of an electronic device that connects to the Internet;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the use of paid public advertising or promotions;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the charging of a fee for admission, a seat, entertainment, or food and drink or any other fee; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the use of any money except money used for wagering; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>has a limit of $1,000 on the total amount of money, tokens representing money, or any other thing or consideration of value that may be wagered by all players during any 24–hour period.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In Carroll County, a home game authorized under subsection (a) of this section may include bingo if it is conducted in a common area of a residential property that is restricted to residents who are at least 55 years old.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1D-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1D" subtitle_name="Fantasy Competitions"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commission” has the meaning stated in § 9–1A–01 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Entry fee” means cash or cash equivalents that a fantasy competition player is required to pay to a fantasy competition operator in order to participate in a fantasy competition.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Fantasy competition” includes any online fantasy or simulated game or contest such as fantasy sports, in which:</text> <level label="1"> <text>participants own, manage, or coach imaginary teams;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>all prizes and awards offered to winning participants are established and made known to participants in advance of the game or contest;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the winning outcome of the game or contest reflects the relative skill of the participants and is determined by statistics generated by actual individuals (players or teams in the case of a professional sport); and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>no winning outcome is based:</text> <level label="i"> <text>solely on the performance of an individual athlete; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>on the score, point spread, or any performances of any single real–world team or any combination of real–world teams.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>“Fantasy competition operator” means any person that offers services in connection with fantasy competitions to individuals by means of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Internet;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a smart phone application; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any other electronics, digital media, communication technology, or device.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Fantasy competition operator” includes, for purposes of the federal Bank Secrecy Act of 1970 and its related regulations, a gaming establishment having at least $1,000,000 in annual gross revenue.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Fantasy competition operator” does not include an individual who:</text> <level label="i"> <text>organizes a fantasy competition in which the individual also participates; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>receives no compensation for organizing the fantasy competition.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Fantasy competition player” means an individual who participates in a fantasy competition offered by a fantasy competition operator.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Location percentage” means, for a fantasy competition, the percentage, rounded to the nearest one–tenth of a percent, of the total entry fees collected by a fantasy competition operator from fantasy competition players in the State divided by the total entry fees collected from all fantasy competition players, regardless of the players’ locations, of the fantasy contests.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Proceeds” means, for a fantasy competition, the amount of entry fees collected by a fantasy competition operator from all fantasy competition players entering the fantasy competition, less winnings paid to fantasy competition players, multiplied by the location percentage.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1D-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1D" subtitle_name="Fantasy Competitions"> <level label="a"> <text>Notwithstanding the provisions of Title 12 of the Criminal Law Article or any other title, and except as provided under subsection (b) of this section, the prohibitions against betting, wagering, and gambling do not apply to participation in a fantasy competition.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A person may not operate a kiosk or machine that offers fantasy competition to the public in a place of business physically located in the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1D-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1D" subtitle_name="Fantasy Competitions"> <level label="a"> <text>A fantasy competition operator shall register with the Commission before the fantasy competition operator may offer a fantasy competition or services in connection with a fantasy competition in the State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Unless a registration is renewed for a 1–year term, the registration expires 1 year from the initial date of registration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may impose a fee for the registration of a fantasy competition operator in accordance with this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1D-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1D" subtitle_name="Fantasy Competitions"> <level label="a"> <text>A fantasy competition operator shall retain 85% of the proceeds and pay the remainder to the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission shall distribute the proceeds paid under subsection (a) of this section to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund established under § 5–206 of the Education Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1D-05" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1D" subtitle_name="Fantasy Competitions"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The regulations adopted under this section may include requirements for the establishment of a voluntary exclusion list.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commission” has the meaning stated in § 9–1A–01 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Gaming establishment” means, for purposes of the federal Bank Secrecy Act of 1970 and its related regulations, a sports wagering licensee having at least $1,000,000 in annual gross revenue.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Horse racing licensee” means the holder of a license issued by the State Racing Commission under § 11–510 of the Business Regulation Article.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Mobile sports wagering licensee” means a sports wagering licensee who is authorized to conduct and operate online sports wagering.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Online sports wagering” means sports wagering through an online gaming system:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on a computer, a mobile device, or any other interactive device; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>that is accepted by a sports wagering licensee or an online sports wagering operator.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Online sports wagering operator” means an entity registered with a state to do business within a jurisdiction of the United States that holds a license issued by the Commission under this subtitle to operate online sports wagering on behalf of a sports wagering licensee.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Proceeds” means the amount of money wagered on a sporting event, less:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the amount returned to successful bettors;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the cash equivalents of any merchandise or thing of value awarded as a prize to successful bettors;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>free bets and promotional credits redeemed by bettors; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>all excise taxes paid by a sports wagering licensee in accordance with federal law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>“Sporting event” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a professional sports or athletic event;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a collegiate sports or athletic event;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an Olympic or international sports or athletic event;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>an electronic sports or video game competition in which each participant is at least 18 years old;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a motor race event sanctioned by a motor racing governing entity;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>except as otherwise prohibited under Title 11 of the Business Regulation Article or the federal Interstate Horse Racing Act, a horse race, held in or out of the State, if consented to and approved by:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the horse racing licensee of the applicable breed;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the organization representing the majority of the owners and trainers of the applicable breed in the State;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the organization representing the majority of the applicable breeders in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the State Racing Commission;</text> </level> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>any portion of a sporting event, including the individual performance statistics of athletes or competitors in a sporting event; or</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>an award event or competition of national or international prominence if expressly authorized by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Sporting event” does not include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a high school sports or athletic event; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a fantasy competition regulated under Subtitle 1D of this title.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Sports wagering” means the business of accepting wagers on any sporting event by any system or method of wagering, including single–game bets, teaser bets, parlays, over–under, moneyline, pools, exchange wagering, in–game wagering, in–play bets, proposition bets, and straight bets.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <text>“Sports wagering facility licensee” means a sports wagering licensee who is authorized to conduct and operate sports wagering at the sports wagering facility owned, leased, or occupied by the sports wagering licensee.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Sports wagering facility licensee” includes the holder of a Class A–1, A–2, B–1, or B–2 sports wagering facility license issued under § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>“Sports wagering license” means a license issued by the Commission under this subtitle that authorizes the holder to accept wagers on sporting events.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <text>“Sports wagering licensee” means the holder of a sports wagering license.</text> </level> <level label="n"> <text>“Video lottery facility” has the meaning stated in § 9–1A–01 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="o"> <text>“Video lottery operation license” has the meaning stated in § 9–1A–01 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="p"> <text>“Video lottery operator” has the meaning stated in § 9–1A–01 of this title.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <text>It is the intent of the General Assembly that this subtitle is to be implemented in a manner that, to the extent permitted by State and federal law, maximizes the ability of minorities, women, and minority and women–owned businesses to participate in the sports wagering industry, including through the ownership of entities licensed to conduct sports wagering under this subtitle.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Unless the context requires otherwise, the requirements under §§ 9–1A–04, 9–1A–06, 9–1A–07, 9–1A–08, 9–1A–12, 9–1A–14, 9–1A–18, 9–1A–19, 9–1A–20, and 9–1A–25 of this title apply to the authority, duties, and responsibilities of the Commission, a sports wagering licensee, and an employee or a contractor of a sports wagering licensee under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall consider the use of technology, remote surveillance, and other similar measures to carry out its duties under this subsection and § 9–1E–04 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This subtitle authorizes a sports wagering licensee to conduct and operate sports wagering in the State as provided in this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A sports wagering licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>comply with all State and federal data security laws; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>maintain all sports wagering data securely for at least 5 years; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may not:</text> <level label="i"> <text>share any personally identifiable information with any third parties without permission, except as needed to operate sports wagering and administer the licensee’s obligations under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>target advertising to individuals who are prohibited from participating in sports wagering and other at–risk individuals; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>engage in any false or deceptive advertising.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a sports wagering facility is subject to local zoning laws.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The use of a facility for sports wagering is not required to be submitted to or approved by any county or municipal zoning board, authority, or unit if the facility is properly zoned and operating as of the effective date of this Act for the following activities:</text> <level label="i"> <text>operation of a video lottery facility;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>pari–mutuel betting on horse racing; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>operation of electronic bingo or electronic tip jar machines.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, the Commission shall regulate sports wagering and the conduct of sports wagering to the same extent that the Commission regulates the operation of video lottery terminals and table games under Subtitle 1A of this title.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In accordance with this subtitle, the Commission shall adopt regulations that establish:</text> <level label="1"> <text>subject to § 9–1E–15 of this subtitle, the form and content of an application for any license required under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the methods, procedures, and form for delivery of information from an applicant or a licensee concerning any person’s family, habits, character, associates, criminal record, business activities, and financial affairs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the procedures for the fingerprinting of an applicant for any license required under this subtitle or other methods of identification that may be necessary in the judgment of the Commission to accomplish effective enforcement of the provisions of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the grounds and procedures for reprimands of licensees or the revocation or suspension of licenses issued under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the manner and method of collection of taxes, fees, and civil penalties;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>standards, procedures, and rules that govern the conduct of sports wagering, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the approval process for self–service kiosks, devices, or machines, security measures for the kiosks, devices, or machines, the amount of wagers authorized on the kiosks, devices, or machines, and any other matter relating to a self–service kiosk, device, or machine necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the types of wagers on sporting events that may be accepted by a sports wagering licensee and prohibited wagers, such as wagers on injuries, penalties, the outcome of player disciplinary rulings, replay reviews, and other types or forms of wagering that are contrary to public policy or unfair to bettors;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the types and values of promotional items that may be given away to encourage sports wagering;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the manner in which wagers are received and payouts are remitted;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the maximum wagers that may be accepted by a sports wagering licensee from a single bettor on a single sporting event;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the amount of cash reserves or other financial security to be maintained by sports wagering licensees to cover winning wagers;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>acceptable forms of payment and advance deposit methods by bettors;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>minimum uniform standards of accountancy methods, procedures, and forms as are necessary to ensure consistency, comparability, and effective disclosure of all financial information, including percentages of profit;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>periodic financial reports and the form of the reports, including an annual audit prepared by a certified public accountant licensed to do business in the State in accordance with the Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements and generally accepted accounting principles;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>requiring licensees under this subtitle to demonstrate and maintain financial viability;</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>ensuring that sports wagering is conducted legally;</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>requiring licensees to prominently publish complaint procedures; and</text> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>establishing a list of individuals who are to be mandatorily excluded or ejected by a sports wagering licensee from any facility or website operated by a sports wagering licensee; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>any other regulation necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may adopt regulations authorizing a sports wagering licensee, if a satellite simulcast facility is located in the licensee’s sports wagering facility, to allow its employees to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>accept satellite simulcast bets on horse racing; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>operate kiosks capable of accepting both sports wagers and satellite simulcast bets.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-05" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in §§ 10–14A–03 and 10–14B–03 of this article, the following persons shall be licensed under this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a person that operates sports wagering;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a person that operates sports wagering on behalf of a sports wagering licensee, including an online sports wagering operator;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a person not licensed under item (1) or (2) of this subsection that manages, operates, supplies, provides security for, or provides service, maintenance, or repairs for sports wagering equipment and devices; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>an individual directly employed in the operation of sports wagering by a sports wagering licensee if the individual does not otherwise hold a valid license under Subtitle 1A of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may by regulation require a person that contracts with a licensee and the person’s employees to obtain a license under this subtitle if the Commission determines that the licensing requirements are necessary in order to protect the public interest and accomplish the policies established by this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>For all licenses required under this subtitle, if an applicant holds a valid license in this State or another state and the Commission determines that the licensing standards of the issuing agency are comprehensive and thorough and provide similar and adequate safeguards to those provided in this subtitle, the Commission may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>waive some or all of the requirements of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>issue a license to that applicant.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided under this subtitle or in regulation, the Commission may not waive a requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection that relates to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>minority business enterprise participation goals and procedures established under § 9–1E–07(b) of this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a requirement of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission under § 9–1E–15 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, on the request of an applicant, the Commission may grant an exemption or a waiver of a licensing requirement or grounds for denial of a license if the Commission determines that the requirement or grounds for denial of a license as applied to the applicant are not necessary to protect the public interest or accomplish the policies established by this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On granting to an applicant an exemption or a waiver under this subsection, or at any time after an exemption or a waiver has been granted, the Commission may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>limit or place restrictions on the exemption or waiver as the Commission considers necessary in the public interest; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>require the person that is granted the exemption or waiver to cooperate with the Commission and to provide the Commission with any additional information required by the Commission as a condition of the waiver or exemption.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Except as provided under this subtitle or in regulation, the Commission may not grant an exemption or a waiver of a licensing requirement adopted by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission in accordance with § 9–1E–15(h)(2) of this subtitle to implement remedial measures based on the findings of a study of the sports wagering industry and market.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-06" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>On an award of a license by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission established under § 9–1E–15 of this subtitle, the Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>issue a Class A–1 sports wagering facility license to an applicant that meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a video lottery operator with more than 1,000 video lottery terminals; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="A"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a stadium in Prince George’s County that is primarily used for professional football (NFL);</text> </level> </level> <level label="B"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a professional football (NFL) franchise that is a lessee of a stadium in Baltimore City;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a professional major league baseball franchise that is a lessee of a stadium in Baltimore City;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a professional hockey league (NHL) franchise, that is a lessee of a stadium in the State;</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a professional basketball association (NBA) franchise, that is a lessee of a stadium in the State; or</text> </level> <level label="F"> <text>the owner, or the designee of the owner, of a professional soccer league (MLS) franchise, that is a lessee of a stadium in the State;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>issue a Class A–2 sports wagering facility license to an applicant that meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a video lottery operator with 1,000 or fewer video lottery terminals; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a horse racing licensee;</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, issue a Class B–1 sports wagering facility license to any applicant who meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle and who is not eligible for a Class B–2 sports wagering facility license;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, issue a Class B–2 sports wagering facility license to any applicant who is a person with less than:</text> <level label="1"> <text>25 full–time equivalent employees; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>$3,000,000 in annual gross receipts; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>issue not more than 60 mobile sports wagering licenses to any applicant who meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Commission shall issue a Class B–1 or Class B–2 sports wagering facility license to an applicant that meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the holder of a license issued by the State Racing Commission under § 11–524 of the Business Regulation Article, including a subsidiary of the license holder;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a person who is the owner or lessee of a facility approved for satellite simulcast betting before January 1, 2021, unless the satellite simulcast facility is located at a video lottery facility or a racetrack; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a person who holds a commercial bingo license, if the facility at which the person operates commercial bingo was permitted to operate at least 200 electronic bingo machines or electronic tip jar machines on January 1, 2021.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In addition to the Class B–1 and B–2 sports wagering facility licenses issued in accordance with subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the Commission may issue not more than 30 Class B–1 and Class B–2 sports wagering facility licenses under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission established under § 9–1E–15 of this subtitle may not award a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license to an applicant:</text> <level label="1"> <text>who is eligible to apply for a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility license under paragraph (1) of this subsection;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>who holds a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility license; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>whose sports wagering facility will be located:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>except as provided under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, within a 15–mile radius of a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility located in Allegany County, Cecil County, or Worcester County;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>with respect to an application for a sports wagering facility license submitted before June 1, 2025, within a 15–mile radius of a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility licensed to a person described under paragraph (2)(i) of this subsection and located in Charles County;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>with respect to an application for a sports wagering facility license submitted before June 1, 2025, within a 10–mile radius of a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility licensed to a person described under paragraph (2)(i) of this subsection and located in Carroll County;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>with respect to an application for a sports wagering facility license submitted before June 1, 2025, within a 5–mile radius of a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility licensed to a person described under paragraph (2)(i) of this subsection and located in Frederick County; or</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>within a 1.5–mile radius of a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility located in a county not described under item A, B, C, or D of this item or any other Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>The prohibition under subparagraph (i)3A of this paragraph does not apply in Allegany County prior to the issuance of a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility license in Allegany County.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license issued within a 15–mile radius of a Class A–1 or A–2 sports wagering facility in Allegany County may be renewed if the license was initially issued prior to the issuance of the Class A–1 or A–2 license.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A for–profit entity, nonprofit organization, or public–private partnership operating at the racing location described under Title 11, Subtitle 7 of the Business Regulation Article located on lands owned by the Department of Natural Resources may apply for a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If an applicant designates an entity to hold the license under paragraph (1)(i)2 of this subsection, the designee shall be considered the applicant and subject to the requirements of the application process.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>In addition to any other person, an applicant for or holder of a Class A–1, A–2, B–1, or B–2 sports wagering facility license may apply for a mobile sports wagering license under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, an applicant for a sports wagering license shall pay to the Commission an application fee of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>$2,000,000 for a Class A–1 sports wagering facility license;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>$1,000,000 for a Class A–2 sports wagering facility license;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>$250,000 for a Class B–1 sports wagering facility license;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>$50,000 for a Class B–2 sports wagering facility license; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>$500,000 for a mobile sports wagering license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The requirement to pay an application fee to the Commission under paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to an applicant for a Class A–2 sports wagering facility license that is a horse racing licensee described under § 11–510(b)(3) of the Business Regulation Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a sports wagering license under this section is 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On application by the sports wagering licensee and payment of the license renewal fee under paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Commission shall renew for 5 years a sports wagering license if the licensee complies with all statutory and regulatory requirements.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The license renewal fee is equal to 1% of the average annual amount the licensee retained under § 9–1E–12(b)(1)(ii), (iii), or (iv) of this subtitle for the preceding 3–year period.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A sports wagering licensee may not begin accepting wagers on sporting events until the application fee under subsection (b)(1) of this section is paid in full and the applicant reimburses the Commission for expenses related to performing background investigations.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The application fee under subsection (b)(1) of this section is nonrefundable.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-07" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>An applicant for a license under this subtitle shall submit to the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an application in the form that the Commission requires; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the applicant is applying for a sports wagering license, an affidavit attesting to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the number of minority and women owners of the applicant;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the ownership interest of any minority and women owners of the applicant;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the number of minority and women employees of the applicant;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the number of current contracts the applicant has with minority– and women–owned subcontractors; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>any other information considered necessary by the Commission or the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission established under § 9–1E–15 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The findings and evidence relied on by the General Assembly for the continuation of the Minority Business Enterprise Program under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article are incorporated in this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>To the extent practicable and authorized by the United States Constitution, a sports wagering licensee shall comply with the State’s Minority Business Enterprise Program.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>On or before 6 months after the issuance of a sports wagering license under this subtitle, the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General and the sports wagering licensee, shall establish a clear plan for setting reasonable and appropriate minority business enterprise participation goals and procedures for the procurement of goods and services related to sports wagering, including procurement of construction, equipment, and ongoing services.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>To the extent practicable, the goals and procedures specified in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be based on the requirements of Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article and the regulations implementing that subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>On or after July 1, 2031, the provisions of this subsection and any regulations adopted under this subsection shall be of no effect and may not be enforced.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection does not apply to the application or license renewal fees for a sports wagering license required under § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Commission shall adopt regulations that establish an application fee and license renewal fee for a license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The application fee for an online sports wagering operator license may not be less than $5,000.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An applicant shall submit the application fee with the application.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The term of the license is 5 years.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Commission, the Comptroller shall pay the following amounts from the application fees and license renewal fees collected by the Commission under this section and § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an amount to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency necessary to reimburse the Agency for expenses related to the issuance and renewal of sports wagering licenses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>5% of the fees collected for each Class A–1 and A–2 sports wagering facility license to the Small, Minority–Owned, and Women–Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund established under § 9–1E–16 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the remainder to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund established under § 5–206 of the Education Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall have the affirmative responsibility to establish by clear and convincing evidence the applicant’s or licensee’s qualifications.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall provide information required by this subtitle and satisfy requests for information relating to qualifications in the form specified by the Commission, if applicable.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide assistance or information required by the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>cooperate in an inquiry, an investigation, or a hearing conducted by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On issuance of a formal request to answer or produce information, evidence, or testimony, if an applicant or a licensee refuses to comply, the application or license may be denied, suspended, or revoked by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>If the applicant is an individual, the applicant shall be photographed and fingerprinted for identification and investigation purposes.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If the applicant is not an individual, the Commission by regulation may establish the categories of individuals who shall be photographed and fingerprinted for identification and investigation purposes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall inform the Commission of an act or omission that the person knows or should know constitutes a violation of this subtitle or the regulations adopted under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Applicants and licensees may not discriminate against a person who in good faith informs the Commission of an act or omission that the person believes constitutes a violation of this subtitle or the regulations adopted under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Applicants and licensees shall produce information, documentation, and assurances to establish the following qualification criteria by clear and convincing evidence:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the financial stability, integrity, and responsibility of the applicant or licensee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the integrity of any financial backers, investors, mortgagees, bondholders, and holders of other evidences of indebtedness that bear a relation to the application;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the applicant’s or licensee’s good character, honesty, and integrity;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>sufficient business ability and experience of the applicant or licensee; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>unless the applicant or licensee already has a collective bargaining agreement, the applicant or licensee has entered into a labor peace agreement with each labor organization that is actively engaged in representing or attempting to represent sports wagering industry workers in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the labor peace agreement is valid and enforceable under 29 U.S.C. § 158;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the labor peace agreement protects the State’s revenues by prohibiting the labor organization and its members from engaging in picketing, work stoppages, boycotts, and any other economic interference with the operation of sports wagering within the first 5 years of the effective date of a sports wagering license; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the labor peace agreement applies to all operations conducted by the applicant or licensee at a facility or location where sports wagering is conducted.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>On the filing of an application for any license required under this subtitle and any supplemental information required by the Commission, the Commission shall conduct a background investigation on the qualifications of the applicant and any person who is required to be qualified under this subtitle as a condition of a license.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may refer an application for a license to an approved vendor under § 9–1A–20 of this title to conduct the background investigation for the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>After receiving the results of the background investigation, the Commission may either grant a license to an applicant whom the Commission determines to be qualified or deny the license to an applicant whom the Commission determines to be not qualified or disqualified.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an application for a license is denied, the Commission shall prepare and file an order denying the license with a statement of the reasons for the denial, including the specific findings of fact.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>An individual may not knowingly give false information or make a material misstatement in an application required for any license under this subtitle or in any supplemental information required by the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An individual who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>The holder of a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license or a mobile sports wagering license may only sell or transfer ownership of the license if the licensee was actively engaged in operating sports wagering in the State for at least 3 years immediately preceding the sale or transfer of the ownership of the license.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection may be construed to limit the ability of the Commission to enforce this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>A sports wagering facility licensee issued a license under § 9–1E–06(a)(2)(ii) of this subtitle may submit a written request to the Commission to relocate a Class B sports wagering facility.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may grant a request submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection only if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the sports wagering facility licensee was originally issued a Class B sports wagering facility license on or before September 30, 2023; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the new location for the sports wagering facility:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is within the same county;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>complies with the location requirements under § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>subject to § 9–1E–15(q) of this subtitle, is approved by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-08" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission may deny a license to an applicant for a license under § 9–1E–05 of this subtitle, reprimand or fine a licensee, or suspend or revoke a license for a violation of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a regulation adopted under this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a condition that the Commission sets.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>For each violation specified in subsection (a) of this section, the Commission may impose a penalty not exceeding $5,000.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Each day that a person is in violation under this section shall be considered a separate violation.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>To determine the amount of the penalty imposed under subsection (b) of this section, the Commission shall consider:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the seriousness of the violation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the harm caused by the violation; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the good faith or lack of good faith of the person who committed the violation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, nothing contained in this subtitle abrogates or limits the criminal laws of the State or limits the authority of the General Assembly to enact statutes establishing criminal offenses and penalties relating to sports wagering operations.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-09" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>A sports wagering facility licensee may accept wagers on sporting events that are made:</text> <level label="1"> <text>by an individual physically present:</text> <level label="i"> <text>at a video lottery facility, if the sports wagering licensee is a video lottery operator;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>at Pimlico Race Course or a race track located at Laurel Park, if the sports wagering licensee is a horse racing licensee;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>subject to subsection (d) of this section, at a stadium primarily used for professional football (NFL), professional major league baseball, professional hockey (NHL), professional basketball (NBA), or professional soccer (MLS), if the sports wagering licensee is the owner or a lessee or the designee of the owner or lessee of the stadium;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, if the sports wagering licensee is the holder of a license issued by the State Racing Commission under § 11–524 of the Business Regulation Article, or a subsidiary of the license holder;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>at a satellite simulcast facility, if the sports wagering licensee is the owner or lessee of a satellite simulcast facility described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>at a commercial bingo facility with at least 200 electronic bingo machines or electronic tip jar machines, if the sports wagering licensee is a commercial bingo operator described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2) of this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>subject to subsection (e) of this section, at the facility identified in the application approved by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, if the sports wagering licensee is a holder of a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on a self–service kiosk, device, or machine, approved by the Commission, located in a facility or at a location identified under item (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A mobile sports wagering licensee may accept wagers on sporting events that are made through online sports wagering by an individual physically located in the State.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>To participate in online sports wagering under this section, an individual shall register:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in person at a facility or location identified under subsection (a)(1) of this section; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>online using a website or mobile application approved by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a sports wagering facility licensee may contract with any other sports wagering facility licensee to provide sports wagering services on behalf of the licensee at a location where the licensee is authorized to accept wagers on sporting events.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A Class A sports wagering facility licensee that provides sports wagering services on behalf of a Class B sports wagering facility licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may utilize the Class A sports wagering facility’s branding and loyalty rewards programs at the Class B sports wagering facility on behalf of which it is providing sports wagering services; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may not allow an individual to utilize the account wallet that the individual maintains with the Class A sports wagering facility when placing wagers with the Class B sports wagering licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Subject to the approval of a Class A sports wagering facility licensee, a Class B sports wagering facility licensee that receives sports wagering services from a Class A sports wagering facility licensee may utilize and market the Class A sports wagering facility licensee’s branding and loyalty rewards programs in the same manner as the Class A sports wagering facility licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If a sports wagering licensee authorized to accept wagers at a stadium under subsection (a)(1)(iii) of this section contracts with a video lottery operator, or an affiliate or a subsidiary of that video lottery operator, to provide sports wagering services at the stadium, the licensee may contract only with a video lottery operator, or an affiliate or a subsidiary of that video lottery operator, that operates a video lottery facility located in the same county as the stadium.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A sports wagering facility licensee authorized to accept in–person wagers at the racing location described under Title 11, Subtitle 7 of the Business Regulation Article located on lands owned by the Department of Natural Resources may only accept wagers in the special event zone.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-10" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>A mobile sports wagering licensee:</text> <level label="i"> <text>may conduct and operate online sports wagering; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection and subsection (b) of this section, may enter into a contract with an online sports wagering operator to conduct online sports wagering on its behalf.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A person other than the mobile sports wagering licensee may not conduct online sports wagering, except for testing purposes, until the person receives from the Commission an online sports wagering license.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>A mobile sports wagering licensee may not contract with more than one online sports wagering operator to conduct online sports wagering on the licensee’s behalf.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>All mobile sports wagering licensees that are related entities are treated as a single mobile sports wagering licensee for purposes of the limitation under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The duties and responsibilities of an online sports wagering operator may not be assigned, delegated, subcontracted, or transferred to a third party without the prior approval of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A third party must be licensed as an online sports wagering operator before offering online sports wagering.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>An online sports wagering operator may conduct online sports wagering on behalf of more than one mobile sports wagering licensee.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-11" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>An individual may not wager on a sporting event and a sports wagering licensee may not accept a wager from an individual on a sporting event if the individual:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is under the age of 21 years;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is not physically present in the State;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>is an athlete, a coach, a referee, or a director or an employee of a sports governing entity or any of its member teams;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>is the direct or indirect legal or beneficial owner of 10% or more of a sports governing entity or any of its member teams if any member team of that sports governing entity participates in the sporting event;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>has access to certain types of exclusive information on any sporting event overseen by that individual’s sports governing entity;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>holds a position of authority or influence sufficient to exert influence over the participants in a sporting event, including coaches, managers, handlers, or athletic trainers;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>is identified on a mandatory or voluntary sports wagering exclusion list maintained by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>is the operator, director, officer, owner, or employee of the sports wagering licensee or online sports wagering operator or any relative of the licensee or operator living in the same household as the licensee or operator;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>has access to nonpublic confidential information held by the sports wagering licensee or online sports wagering operator; or</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>is a category of individuals prohibited by the Commission under subsection (e) of this section from wagering on a sporting event.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>For online sports wagering, a mobile sports wagering licensee shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>have in place technical and operational measures to prevent access by individuals who are underage or physically located outside the State, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>age verification procedures, which may require the use of a reputable independent third party that is in the business of verifying an individual’s personally identifiable information; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the use of geolocation technology to verify a bettor’s geographic location;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>include on its online sports wagering website a description of the possible repercussions for an underage or out–of–state bettor, which may include immediate stoppage of play, account closure, and forfeiture and confiscation of winnings; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>establish procedures to prevent prohibited individuals from wagering on sporting events.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A sports wagering licensee shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>promptly report to the Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>any criminal or disciplinary proceedings against the licensee or its employees in connection with the licensee’s sports wagering operation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any abnormal betting activity or patterns that may indicate a concern about the integrity of a sporting event;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any other conduct with the potential to corrupt the outcome of a sporting event for purposes of financial gain, including match fixing; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any suspicious or illegal wagering activities, including the use of funds derived from illegal activity, wagers to conceal or launder funds derived from illegal activity, use of agents to place wagers, or use of false identification; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>maintain records of sports wagering operations in accordance with regulations adopted by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Commission is authorized to share any information under this section with any law enforcement agency, sports team, sports governing entity, or regulatory agency the Commission deems appropriate.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>In this subsection, “interested party” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a sports wagering licensee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a professional sports team, league, association, or governing entity; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an institution of higher education.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an interested party believes that a type or form of wagering or a category of individuals wagering on sporting events is contrary to public policy, is unfair to consumers, or affects the integrity of a particular sport or the sports wagering industry, the interested party may submit to the Commission, in writing, a request to prohibit the type or form of sports wagering or the category of individuals from wagering on sporting events.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>After conducting a public hearing on a request submitted under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Commission may grant the request on a showing of good cause by the interested party.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Commission shall respond to a request under this subsection concerning a particular sporting event before the start of the sporting event to the greatest extent feasible, or as soon as practicable.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-12" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall account to the Comptroller for all of the revenue under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The proceeds from sports wagering, less the amount retained by the licensee under subsection (b)(1) of this section, shall be under the control of the Comptroller and distributed as provided under subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraphs (ii), (iii), and (iv) of this paragraph, all proceeds from sports wagering shall be electronically transferred monthly into the State Lottery Fund established under Subtitle 1 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A Class A–1 and A–2 sports wagering facility licensee shall retain 85% of the proceeds from sports wagering conducted at the locations described in § 9–1E–09(a) of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>A Class B–1 and B–2 sports wagering facility licensee shall retain 85% of the proceeds from sports wagering conducted at the location described in the licensee’s application.</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>A mobile sports wagering licensee shall retain 80% of the proceeds from online sports wagering received by the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, all proceeds from sports wagering in the State Lottery Fund established under Subtitle 1 of this title shall be distributed on a monthly basis, on a properly approved transmittal prepared by the Commission to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund established under § 5–206 of the Education Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>For fiscal year 2026 and each fiscal year thereafter, 5% of the proceeds attributable to online sports wagering shall be deposited in the General Fund.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A winning wager on a sporting event that is not claimed by the winner within 182 days after the wager is won shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>become the property of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be distributed to the Problem Gambling Fund established under § 9–1A–33 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If a sports wagering licensee returns to successful players more than the amount of money wagered in any month, the licensee may subtract that amount from the proceeds of up to the three following months.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The admissions and amusement tax may not be imposed on any proceeds from sports wagering.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-13" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>All wagers on sporting events authorized under this subtitle shall be initiated, received, and otherwise made within the State unless otherwise determined by the Commission in accordance with applicable federal and State laws.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Consistent with the intent of the United States Congress as articulated in the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, the intermediate routing of electronic data relating to a lawful intrastate wager authorized under this subtitle may not determine the location in which the wager is initiated, received, or otherwise made.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Notwithstanding the provisions of this subtitle, a wager on a sporting event may be accepted or pooled with a wager from an individual who is not physically present in the State if the Commission determines that accepting or pooling the wager is not inconsistent with federal law or the law of the jurisdiction, including any foreign nation, in which the individual is located, or that such wagering is conducted in accordance with a reciprocal agreement to which the State is a party that is not inconsistent with federal law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-14" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before July 1 each year, each sports wagering licensee shall report to the Commission on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of minority and women owners of the licensee;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the ownership interest of any minority and women owners of the licensee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the number of minority and women employees of the licensee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the number of current contracts the licensee has with minority– and women–owned subcontractors; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>any other information considered necessary by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On or before December 1 each year, the Commission shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the operation of sports wagering in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>sports wagering revenues from the immediately preceding fiscal year, including the handle, hold, hold percentage, and proceeds, broken down by categories defined by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, on or before December 1, 2025, the Commission shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, on the racial, ethnic, gender, and geographic diversity of holders of Class B–1 and B–2 sports wagering facility licenses and mobile sports wagering licenses under this subtitle, the level of market saturation of sports wagering in the State, and whether the number of Class B–1 and B–2 sports wagering facility licenses and mobile sports wagering licenses that may be issued under this subtitle should be increased in order to address the demand for sports wagering in the State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Before the Commission submits the report described under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Commission shall provide the Legislative Policy Committee with at least 30 days to submit comments to the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-15" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Sports Wagering Application Review Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission consists of the following seven members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the chair of the Commission, or the chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>two members appointed by the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>two members appointed by the President of the Senate, who may not be members of the Senate; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>two members appointed by the Speaker of the House, who may not be members of the House of Delegates.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The membership of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission appointed under this subsection should reflect the race, gender, and geographic diversity of the population of the State.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Governor shall designate a chair of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission from among the members described under paragraph (1)(i) and (ii) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Governor, in consultation with the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, may remove a member of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission for inefficiency, misconduct in office, or neglect of duty.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A member of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be at least 21 years old;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall be a citizen of the United States;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>shall be a resident of the State;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>shall be knowledgeable and experienced in fiscal matters and shall have at least 10 years of substantial experience:</text> <level label="i"> <text>as an executive with fiduciary responsibilities in charge of a large organization or foundation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>in an academic field relating to finance or economics; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>as an economist, a financial analyst, or an accountant, or as a professional in a similar profession relating to fiscal matters or economics;</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>may not have been convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a serious crime or a crime that involves gambling or moral turpitude;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>may not have an official relationship to a person that is applying for or holds a license under this subtitle or Subtitle 1D of this title;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>may not have any direct or indirect financial interest, ownership, or management, including holding any stocks, bonds, or other similar financial interests in any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, fantasy competitions, or lottery;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>may not receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities, including horse racing or lottery;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>may not have a beneficial interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of any independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>may not be an elected official of State or local government; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>shall file a financial disclosure statement with the State Ethics Commission in accordance with Title 15, Subtitle 6 of this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A member of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation for serving on the Sports Wagering License Review Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission and the Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff to the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department of Legislative Services shall contract with an independent consultant that has at least 10 years of substantial experience in consulting on matters relating to the gaming industry to assist the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission in the review and analysis of applications submitted under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall review applications for sports wagering licenses submitted in accordance with § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall award:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a Class A–1 or A–2 facility license to any applicant that meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a Class B–1 or B–2 facility license to any applicant that is described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2)(i) of this subtitle and meets the requirements for licensure under this subtitle; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>may not award a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license, other than to an applicant described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2)(i) of this subtitle, or a mobile sports wagering license until after the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission adopts the regulations required under subsection (h) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Nothing in this subtitle may be construed to preempt the exclusive authority of the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission to award sports wagering licenses in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection applies only to Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility licenses, other than licenses issued to an applicant described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2)(i) of this subtitle, and mobile sports wagering licenses.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission shall adopt regulations governing the evaluation of applications for Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility licenses, other than licenses issued to an applicant described under § 9–1E–06(a)(2)(i) of this subtitle, and mobile sports wagering licenses submitted in accordance with § 9–1E–06 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, in consultation with the certification agency as defined in § 14–301 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, and the Office of the Attorney General, shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>evaluate a study of the sports wagering industry and market to determine whether there is a compelling interest to implement remedial measures, in addition to the application of the State Minority Business Enterprise Program under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article or a similar program, to assist minorities and women in the sports wagering industry;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>evaluate race–neutral programs or other methods that may be used to address the needs of minorities, women, and minority and women–owned businesses seeking to participate in the sports wagering industry, including through the ownership of entities licensed to conduct sports wagering under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>consider whether an applicant for a Class B–1 or B–2 sports wagering facility license intends to conduct sports wagering at a facility located in an opportunity zone or an enterprise zone;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>consider allowing early access to the mobile sports wagering market to entities with a meaningful partnership with minorities, women, and minority– and women–owned businesses; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>adopt emergency regulations to implement remedial measures, if necessary and to the extent permitted by State and federal law, based on the findings of the study evaluated under item (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>to the extent permitted by federal and State law, actively seek to achieve racial, ethnic, and gender diversity when awarding licenses; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>encourage applicants who qualify as a minority business enterprise, as defined in § 14–301 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, or who are small, minority, or women–owned business entities to apply for sports wagering licenses under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>If an applicant is seeking investors in the entity applying for a sports wagering license, the applicant shall take the following steps before being awarded a license by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>make serious, good–faith efforts to solicit and interview a reasonable number of minority and women investors; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>as part of the application, submit a statement that lists the names and addresses of all minority and women investors interviewed and whether or not any of those investors have purchased an equity share in the entity submitting an application.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an applicant is awarded a license by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, the applicant shall sign a memorandum of understanding with the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission that requires the awardee to again make serious, good–faith efforts to interview minority and women investors in any future attempts to raise venture capital or attract new investors to the entity awarded the license.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General, shall provide assistance to all potential applicants and potential minority and women investors to satisfy the requirements under paragraphs (1)(i) and (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission may not award a sports wagering license to a person that is not qualified under this section or this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission shall refer to the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission the name and all relevant information concerning a person that makes an application under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On receipt of the information in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall evaluate whether an applicant is qualified to hold a sports wagering license under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>On completion of its determination, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall notify the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission of its evaluation as to whether an applicant is qualified to hold a sports wagering license under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>After an award of a sports wagering license under this section, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission shall notify the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission of the successful applicants.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <text>After an award of a sports wagering license under this section, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>issue the sports wagering license in accordance with the provisions of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be responsible for all matters relating to regulation of the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="n"> <level label="1"> <text>An unsuccessful applicant for a sports wagering license under this section may seek, under Title 15 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, review by the State Board of Contract Appeals of the awarding of the sports wagering license by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A proceeding under this subsection shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>take precedence on the Board’s docket;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be heard at the earliest practicable date; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>be expedited in every way.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="o"> <text>Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this subtitle, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission may not award a sports wagering license under this subtitle unless the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission determines and declares that an applicant selected for award of the license is in the public interest and is consistent with the purposes of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="p"> <text>The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission may award a sports wagering license that is revoked or surrendered utilizing the criteria established in this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="q"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission shall terminate on January 1, 2028.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Governor may reconstitute the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, which shall include the appointment of new members based on the criteria established under subsections (b) and (c) of this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>1 year prior to the expiration of a sports wagering license; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>following the revocation or surrender of a sports wagering license.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-16" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Fund” means the Small, Minority–Owned, and Women–Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Small, Minority–Owned, and Women–Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to assist small, minority–owned, and women–owned businesses entering the sports wagering market.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Department of Commerce shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>revenue distributed to the Fund under § 9–1E–07(d) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund may be used only for grants or loans to small, minority–owned, or women–owned businesses for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>sports wagering license application assistance;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assistance with sports wagering operations; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>targeted training to support participation in the sports wagering industry.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1E-17" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="1E" subtitle_name="Sports Wagering"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Content partner” means an individual who or a platform that creates sports wagering content for a sports wagering licensee through contracted work, affiliation, or other partnership.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Sports wagering content” means predictions of sporting event outcomes, including moneylines, against the spread, totals, futures, parlays, and other outcomes, whether provided at no cost or through a subscription or other partnership.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Sports wagering expert” or “sports wagering influencer” means a person who creates sports wagering content for a sports wagering licensee, a content partner, or the person’s own benefit.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall license independent evaluators to evaluate and rate sports wagering content provided by sports wagering experts, sports wagering influencers, and content partners.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In order to be licensed under paragraph (1) of this subsection, an independent evaluator:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall have demonstrated experience and expertise in evaluating and rating sports wagering content;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>shall have an audit process constructed and maintained by in–house, licensed certified public accountants;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>shall have evaluation and rating procedures that are unable to be adjusted, duplicated, or altered by the persons subject to evaluation;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>may not have any direct or indirect financial interest, ownership, or management, including holding any stocks, bonds, or other similar financial interests in any sports wagering activities;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>may not receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any sports wagering activities; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>may not have any revenue–sharing relationship with or other financial interest in a sports wagering licensee or sports wagering operator.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An employee or a principal of an independent evaluator, or the independent evaluator as an entity, may not wager on a sporting event.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, an independent evaluator may not be compensated by a sports wagering licensee or sports wagering operator that utilizes the independent evaluator’s evaluation services solely for marketing materials.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>An independent evaluator may be compensated by a sports wagering licensee or sports wagering operator for its evaluation and rating of sports wagering content.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Commission may establish additional qualifications for the licensing of independent evaluators in accordance with this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations to implement this section.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A sports wagering licensee or sports wagering operator that advertises in the State may contract with an independent evaluator licensed under subsection (b) of this section to evaluate and rate the sports wagering licensee’s sports wagering content, sports wagering experts, sports wagering influencers, and content partners.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-201" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commission” means the State Commission on Uniform State Laws.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“National Conference” means the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-202" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <text>There is a State Commission on Uniform State Laws in the Executive Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-203" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>3 members appointed by the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>as an ex officio member, any individual elected to life membership in the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws, after service as an appointed member of the Commission from this State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member is 4 years and begins on June 1 of the year in which the term of the Governor begins.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At the end of a term, an appointed member continues to serve until a successor is appointed.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-204" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>A member of the Commission may not receive compensation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Members of the Commission and the associate member of the National Conference from the State are entitled to reimbursement for expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In accordance with the State budget, the Commission may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>employ a staff; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make necessary expenditures.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-205" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <text>The Commission may contribute to the expenses of the National Conference, as provided in the State budget.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-206" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Commission on Uniform State Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>represent the State in the National Conference;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>meet with representatives of other states in the National Conference;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>draft uniform laws and model acts for submission to and adoption by the states;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>recommend the best action to accomplish uniformity in legislation; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>otherwise seek the best means to obtain uniformity in the laws of the states.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Before each regular session of the General Assembly, the Commission shall submit an annual report:</text> <level label="i"> <text>to the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The annual report shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>describe the activities of the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>include recommendations on appropriate subjects.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-301" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs. [Renumbered]"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Governor’s Subcabinet” means the Governor’s Subcabinet on Socioeconomic Procurement Participation.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>“Minority person” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an individual who has been deprived of the opportunity to develop and keep a competitive position in the economy because of a social or economic disadvantage that arises from cultural, racial, or other similar causes; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a sheltered workshop for individuals with disabilities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Minority person” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an Aleut;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an American Indian;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a Black;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>an Eskimo;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a Hispanic;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>an Oriental;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>a Puerto Rican; or</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>a woman.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Special Secretary” means the Special Secretary for the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-303.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs. [Renumbered]"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Governor’s Subcabinet on Socioeconomic Procurement Participation.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Governor’s Subcabinet is composed of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Special Secretary of the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, who shall serve as chair of the Subcabinet;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Budget and Management, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of General Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Secretary of Information Technology, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Chief Procurement Officer for the State, or the Chief Procurement Officer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>the Minority Business Enterprise Ombudsman, or the Ombudsman’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>any other head of a department or agency that is accountable to the Governor, as deemed necessary by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor’s Subcabinet shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meet:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a minimum of once each quarter; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>at a frequency deemed appropriate by the chair;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>study socioeconomic procurement programs in other states to identify successes and best practices;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>develop accountability measures for procurement forecasts, strategic plans, Procurement Review Group processes, and liaison officer accountability;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>work with the Office of State Procurement to implement process improvements that directly impact socioeconomic procurement businesses’ ability to fairly compete for and understand State contracting opportunities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>identify and recommend statutory and regulatory reforms to strengthen and improve the State’s socioeconomic procurement programs; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>recommend actions to make improvements to the Small Business Reserve Program, the Minority Business Enterprise Program, and the Veteran Small Business Enterprise Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On or before December 31, 2025, and each December 1 thereafter, the Governor’s Subcabinet shall report to the Governor on the Governor’s Subcabinet’s activities, progress, and recommendations.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-501" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <text>In this subtitle, “Trust” means the State House Trust.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-502" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <text>There is a State House Trust.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-503" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Trust consists of the following 4 ex officio members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Speaker of the House of Delegates; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>from the Maryland Historical Trust, the Chairman or the Chairman’s designee, who may be another trustee, the Director, or the State Historic Preservation Officer.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Trust may include not more than 3 associate members appointed by the members.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Each associate member must have experience and interest in historic preservation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An associate member may not vote.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-504" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <text>The Trust shall determine the times and places of its meetings.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-505" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Trust shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>be responsible for the restoration and preservation of the State House;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be responsible for the landscaping and construction of Lawyer’s Mall; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>disapprove or approve and supervise:</text> <level label="i"> <text>any proposed repair, improvement, or other change to the State House or to any other building within State Circle, including any change to the furnishings or fixtures of those buildings;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any proposed landscaping of the grounds of those buildings; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any proposed improvement, nonemergency repair, or other change to Lawyer’s Mall.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Trust is not required under subsection (a)(2) or (3)(iii) of this section to be responsible for, or disapprove or approve and supervise, the coordination, security, and scheduling of rallies and other events held on Lawyer’s Mall.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-506" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="State House Trust"> <level label="a"> <text>The Trust shall retain an architect as a consultant.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The consultant must:</text> <level label="1"> <text>be registered by the State Board of Architects;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be familiar with all phases of 18th century architecture; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>have the professional experience that is needed to restore the State House in a way that befits its majestic history and its current role as the Capitol.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The consultant is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The consultant shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>prepare measured drawings of the State House;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>publish the drawings and a descriptive text;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>send copies of the drawings to the National Trust for Historic Preservation; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>subject to § 2-1257 of this article, submit to the General Assembly a report on the drawings.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-601" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <text>In this subtitle, “Trust” means the Government House Trust.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-602" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <text>There is a Government House Trust.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-603" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <level label="a"> <text>The Trust shall consist of the following voting members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Speaker of the House of Delegates;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of General Services; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Director of the Maryland Historical Trust.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Trust shall consist of the following advisor nonvoting members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Director of the Baltimore Museum of Art;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Director of the Maryland Historical Society;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Director of the St. Mary’s City Commission;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Director of the Talbot County Historical Society;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Director of the Walters Museum of Art;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Director of the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Chairman of the History Department of the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Horticulturist from the Paca House and Gardens;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the State Archivist; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>up to three members of the general public appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A voting or nonvoting member may designate another individual to represent the member at the Trust.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-604" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <text>The Secretary of General Services is the Chairman of the Trust.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-605" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <level label="a"> <text>The Trust shall meet at least twice a year or as necessary as determined by the Trust.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A voting and nonvoting member of the Trust:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Trust may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>adopt bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>appoint committees to carry out the purposes of the Trust.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-606" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Government House Trust"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>“Furnishings” means personal property and fixtures.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Furnishings” includes furniture, art objects, and accessories.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“State room” means any of the following rooms of the Government House:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the center hall;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the conservatory;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the private reception room;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the State dining room;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the State drawing room;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the State parlour; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>the State reception room.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Trust shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>be responsible for the renovation of the State rooms, including their design and furnishings;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>supervise and direct any improvement or other change in the internal design or furnishings of a State room;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>be responsible for any proposed landscaping of the grounds of the Government House;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>be responsible for the conservation and restoration of objects in a State room; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>be responsible for and carry out the maintenance of the State rooms.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Department of General Services shall maintain an inventory of furnishings in the Government House.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In addition to any powers set forth elsewhere, the Trust, on behalf of the State, may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>accept and receive a gift or loan of property for use in a State room; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>accept and receive a gift of money for maintenance and restoration of a State room.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Unless the Trust approves, the internal design and furnishings of a State room may not be changed.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Before the renovation, furnishing, and decoration of a State room, the Trust shall consult with and obtain the input of the Board of Trustees and the Council of the Maryland Historical Society.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-801" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Financial Education and Capability Commission"> <text>In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Financial Education and Capability Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-802" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Financial Education and Capability Commission"> <text>There is a Financial Education and Capability Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-803" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Financial Education and Capability Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>two members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>two members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the State Superintendent of Schools, or the Superintendent’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Commissioner of Financial Regulation in the Maryland Department of Labor, or the Commissioner’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Executive Director of the Family Investment Administration in the Department of Human Services, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Chief of the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General, or the Chief’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the State Treasurer, or the State Treasurer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Comptroller, or the Comptroller’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of Higher Education, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Secretary of Disabilities, or the Secretary’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the following members, appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one member of the Board of Trustees of the Maryland State Employees Supplemental Retirement Plans;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one member of the Maryland State Education Association who teaches a course involving principles of financial education;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one representative of the Maryland CASH Campaign;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one representative of a community–focused nonprofit organization that provides free financial education in the State;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>one representative of a philanthropic organization that provides funding for financial education in the State;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Council on Economic Education or the Maryland Coalition for Financial Literacy;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>one representative of a bank, whether or not State–chartered, that has a branch in the State;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>one representative of a credit union, whether or not State–chartered, that has a branch in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>one licensed mortgage broker holding the Maryland Association of Mortgage Brokers’ “Lending Seal of Integrity”;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>one member of the Maryland Association of CPAs; and</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>one representative of a nonprofit organization in the State that provides financial assistance and free financial education to State residents for postsecondary education.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member of the Commission is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for appointed members of the Commission on October 1, 2012.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, an appointed member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The President of the Senate shall designate one of the members appointed from the Senate as co–chair of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Speaker of the House of Delegates shall designate one of the members appointed from the House as co–chair of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Maryland CASH Campaign shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission shall meet at least two times each year at the times and places determined by the Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-804" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Financial Education and Capability Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>monitor the implementation of public and private initiatives to improve the financial education and capability of residents of the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make recommendations on the coordination of financial education and capability efforts across State agencies; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>encourage financial education events and activities to highlight April as Financial Education Month.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, on or before December 1 each year, the Commission shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on its recommendations and the status of efforts undertaken by State agencies or in partnership with State agencies to improve the financial education and capability of residents of the State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Every 3 years, the report of the Commission required under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include a comprehensive discussion of statewide efforts to improve the financial education and capability of residents of the State, including initiatives funded by the State or a local government and those undertaken in the private sector by nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, and other persons.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-901" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Active duty” has the meaning stated in 37 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Active military, naval, air, or space service” has the meaning stated in 38 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Active service member” means an individual who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an active duty member of the uniformed services; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>serving in a reserve component of the uniformed services on active duty orders.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Armed forces” has the meaning stated in 10 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Board” means the Board of Trustees of the Maryland Veterans Trust.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Veterans and Military Families.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Interment” means all final disposition of human remains, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>earth burial; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>niche or columbarium inurnment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Interment location” means a grave plot or niche in a columbarium.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Military family” includes the spouse and dependent children of a service member or veteran related by blood, marriage, or adoption.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <text>“Military protection order” means a protection order issued in accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 1567 by a commanding officer against a person under the officer’s command in:</text> <level label="1"> <text>any branch of the uniformed services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Maryland National Guard; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the national guard of any other state.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>“Reserve component” has the meaning stated in 37 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families.</text> </level> <level label="n"> <text>“Service member” means an individual who is a member of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the uniformed services; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a reserve component of the uniformed services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="o"> <text>“Trust” means the Maryland Veterans Trust.</text> </level> <level label="p"> <text>“Uniformed services” has the meaning stated in 37 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> <level label="q"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, “veteran” has the meaning stated in 38 U.S.C. § 101.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-902" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Department of Veterans and Military Families, established as a principal department of the State government.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The head of the Department is the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families who shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a veteran who has an honorable discharge from active service with a uniformed service; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Secretary serves at the pleasure of the Governor and is responsible directly to the Governor. The Secretary shall advise the Governor on all matters assigned to the Department and is responsible for carrying out the Governor’s policies on these matters.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Secretary is responsible for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the operation of the Department and shall establish guidelines and procedures to promote the orderly and efficient operation of the Department; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the development of coordinated policies for leading veterans, service members, and their families through life’s transitions, including assisting in securing benefits earned through service in the uniformed services and reserve components.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this subtitle, the Secretary may establish, reorganize, or consolidate areas of responsibility in the Department as necessary to fulfill the duties assigned by the Secretary.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Secretary shall adopt regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Secretary is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-902.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Secretary shall appoint a Deputy Secretary of Military Family Policy and Programs.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Deputy Secretary shall serve at the pleasure of the Secretary.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Deputy Secretary is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Deputy Secretary shall direct policy and programs related to military families.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-903" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Attorney General is the legal adviser to the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-904" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>establish service centers that the Department considers necessary or advisable to facilitate and expedite the servicing of claims of veterans and dependents; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>close any service center that the Department no longer considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department shall try to locate each service center centrally in the area to be served so that the greatest number of veterans:</text> <level label="i"> <text>have access with the least possible delay, travel, and inconvenience; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>receive, as far as possible, personal attention.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There shall be a Director of Veterans Service Centers responsible for the supervision of veterans service centers, whose duties shall include maintaining contact with the appropriate governmental unit regarding the status of each claim of a veteran or eligible dependent of a veteran.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-905" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Department shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>help veterans and their dependents to receive promptly and regularly all of the benefits to which veterans or dependents are entitled under federal law;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>help veterans and their dependents in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>preparing, in proper form, claims for benefits;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>presenting the claims to the appropriate governmental unit;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>trying to prevent and to relieve congestion in the processing of the claims; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>obtaining and expediting action on the claims; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>on request, provide a veteran with a document certifying veteran status.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-905.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Advertisement” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a written or printed communication made for the purpose of soliciting business for veterans benefits appeals services;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a directory listing for a person that is offering veterans benefits appeals services; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a radio, television, computer network or airwave, or electronic transmission that solicits business for or promotes a person offering veterans benefits appeals services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Veterans benefits appeals services” means any services that a veteran might reasonably require in order to appeal a denial of federal, state, or local veterans benefits, including denials of disability, limited income, home loan, insurance, education and training, health care, interment and memorial, and dependent and survivor benefits.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Veterans benefits services” means any services a veteran or a family member of a veteran might reasonably use in order to obtain federal, state, or local veterans benefits.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Before entering into an agreement with an individual for the provision of veterans benefits services or veterans benefits appeals services, a person who charges a fee for those services shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide a written disclosure statement to each individual; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>obtain the individual’s signature on the written disclosure statement acknowledging that the individual understands the disclosure statement.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The written disclosure statement shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>be on a form approved by the Secretary; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>state that veterans benefits services and veterans benefits appeals services are offered at no cost by the Department and other veterans services organizations accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A person who charges a fee for providing veterans benefits appeals services shall provide in any advertisement for appeals services notice that appeals services are also offered at no cost by the Department and other veterans services organizations accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A person who violates the provisions of this section is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Civil penalties shall be in an amount ordered by the District Court in an action brought by the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Each day a violation continues is a separate violation.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Any civil penalty collected shall be deposited in the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-906" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“American braille tactile flag” means a tactile flag designed to allow blind people to experience the American flag, including a flag created by the Kansas Braille Transcription Institute.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In this section and in § 9–907 of this subtitle, “eligible decedent” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a veteran;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a qualified reserve member; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an eligible spouse or dependent.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Eligible dependent” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a child who meets the requirements stated in 38 C.F.R. § 38.620(e);</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a parent who meets the requirements stated in 38 C.F.R. § 38.620(i); or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a parent or child related by blood, marriage, or adoption of a qualified reserve member.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Eligible spouse” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a spouse who meets the requirements stated in 38 C.F.R. § 38.620(e); or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a spouse of a qualified reserve member.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Qualified reserve member” means a reserve component member who does not meet the requirements for interment at a national veterans’ cemetery but served other than dishonorably and completed the individual’s contractual obligation of service.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>“State veterans’ cemetery” means a cemetery that the Department establishes under this section.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>“Washington Cemetery” means the Civil War cemetery grounds authorized by Chapter 213 of the Acts of the General Assembly of 1870.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Department may establish one or more cemeteries in the State for the burial of eligible decedents as authorized by the Secretary.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Department may accept land, on behalf of the State or a political subdivision of the State, or otherwise acquire land for a State veterans’ cemetery, if the Department has the approval of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the governing body of the county where the State veterans’ cemetery is to be located;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the delegation in the General Assembly for the county where the State veterans’ cemetery is to be located; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Board of Public Works.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department shall maintain and supervise each State veterans’ cemetery.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Washington Cemetery shall be under the supervision of the Department.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Department shall provide an interment location in a State veterans’ cemetery, without charge, to a veteran or a veteran’s eligible spouse or dependent who meets the requirements of this section.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>To qualify for an interment location in a State veterans’ cemetery:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the eligible decedent must be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a veteran who meets the requirements for interment at a national veterans’ cemetery;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a qualified reserve member; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an eligible spouse or dependent who meets the requirements of this subsection; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if a qualified reserve member, the qualified reserve member must also have been a resident of the State:</text> <level label="i"> <text>when the qualified reserve member entered the reserve component;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>when the qualified reserve member died; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>for 2 years, unless, for a reason that the Department finds compelling, the Department waives the time period.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>To obtain an interment location in a State veterans’ cemetery, an applicant shall submit to the Department an application on the form that the Department provides.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>In an interment location that is allotted to a veteran or a qualified reserve member, the Department shall inter:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the veteran or qualified reserve member; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any member of the immediate family who is an eligible spouse or dependent if the family member can be interred in a space above or below the veteran or qualified reserve member or in the next available interment location.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>With each interment location, the Department shall provide an outer burial receptacle or columbarium niche and marker at no cost for the veteran or the veteran’s eligible spouse or dependent.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Department may not charge a veteran or a veteran’s eligible spouse or dependent for interment.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the individual being interred is a qualified reserve member or a qualified reserve member’s eligible spouse or dependent, the Department shall collect at the time of interment a fee that is equal to the annual interment location allowance established by the National Cemetery Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>The Department shall designate a location for an American braille tactile flag to be placed in one or more State veterans’ cemeteries as authorized by the Secretary to honor members of the uniformed services, veterans, and other individuals in the State who are blind or visually impaired.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-907" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Department shall keep a registry of the interment locations of eligible decedents who are interred in the State veterans’ cemeteries.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-908" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “veterans’ memorials and monuments” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Maryland Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Associated Land as established pursuant to Joint Resolution No. 22 of 1983;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Maryland Korean War Memorial and Associated Land as established pursuant to Joint Resolution No. 3 of 1985; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Maryland World War II Memorial and Associated Land.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Veterans’ Memorials and Monuments Program administered by the Department.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to provide for the operation, maintenance, security, and preservation of veterans’ memorials and monuments.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In furtherance of these purposes, the Department may, as provided for in the budget:</text> <level label="1"> <text>lease land on behalf of the State or a political subdivision of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>acquire land that has been improved by construction of a memorial or monument.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Secretary may adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this section.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department shall, as provided for in the budget, provide for the management of the veterans’ memorials and monuments as provided in this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department may delegate any of its powers and duties under this section to a special commission or board created by the Department and approved by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Department may acquire, hold, use, and improve property for the purposes specified in subsection (c) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>Subject to Title 7 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, the Department may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>accept gifts or grants;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>unless otherwise provided, spend the principal and income of a gift or grant; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>invest all or part of the principal income in general obligations of the State or any other security.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-909" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>“Home” means the home or homes for veterans that the Department supervises.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-910" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Department shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>maintain and supervise generally the home in accordance with this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>adopt any regulation that is needed for management of the home, including regulations for admission, maintenance, and discharge of its residents.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department may appoint a Director for the home and employ any other staff that is needed to manage the home properly.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In appointing or employing staff, the Department shall give preference to a veteran who has an honorable discharge from the uniformed services.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Director shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>serve at the pleasure of the Secretary; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>perform any duty that the Department requires.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-911" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In accordance with the regulations of the Department and applicable law, the home shall be open:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to a veteran who:</text> <level label="i"> <text>has an honorable discharge from active service with a uniformed service; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is a resident of the State as defined in regulations adopted by the Secretary; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to a spouse of an eligible veteran.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department may charge an individual a reasonable fee for residence in the home.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department shall set the fee in accordance with the ability of an individual to pay. However, the fee may not exceed the cost of maintaining the resident in the home and shall allow the resident enough money for necessary and incidental expenses.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A resident may be discharged in accordance with the regulations of the Department and applicable law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-912" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>To carry out the responsibilities and goals of the Department, the Department may acquire, hold, use, improve, and convey property.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In addition to any other power under this section, the Department may lease any part of the home property for use as a concession or other commercial purpose that is consistent with the purposes of the Department. However, the Department may not lease its property merely for investment purposes.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Notwithstanding any other law, unless the lease expressly provides for redemption by the tenant, the lease is not subject to redemption.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-912.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to Title 7 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, to carry out the purposes or goals of the Department, the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>accept a gift or grant for use at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>unless the terms of a gift or grant require otherwise, and subject to the approval of the Secretary, spend the principal and income of the gift or grant for use at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Gifts and grants that the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home accepts under subsection (a) of this section for use at the Home:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be administered by the Director of the Veterans Home Program; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>are not subject to reversion under § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before July 31 of each year, the Director of the Veterans Home Program shall submit a report to the Secretary on the status of the gifts and grants accepted for use at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On or before August 31 of each year, the Secretary shall submit a report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on the status of the gifts and grants accepted for use at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The reports required under this subsection shall include the following information on the gifts and grants accepted for use at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home during the previous fiscal year:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the gross amount of the gifts and grants;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the costs of administration of the gifts and grants; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a detailed accounting of the use of the gifts and grants.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-912.2" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Bed lease payments” means a daily rate paid by the contractor that operates the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home to the State in lease payments based on the total number of beds, regardless of whether all of the beds are filled.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Fund” means the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to maintain the operation of the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Secretary shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph, any unspent portions of the Fund may not be transferred to or revert to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>If, after deducting all expenses authorized under subsection (g) of this section, the remaining balance of the revenue to the Department from bed lease payments at the end of a fiscal year is greater than 10% of the total budget of the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home for that fiscal year, the amount of the remaining balance that is in excess of 10% of the total budget shall revert to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Fund consists of bed lease payments.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund may be used only for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the salaries and benefits of the departmental staff of the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>improvements to the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other operating expenses of the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>Money expended from the Fund for the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home is supplemental to, and is not intended to take the place of, funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <text>The Office of Legislative Audits shall audit the accounts and transactions of the Fund as provided in § 2–1220 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-913" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Fund” means the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans Trust established for the purpose of providing monetary and other assistance to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>veterans and their families;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>members of the Maryland National Guard and their families; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>public and private programs that support veterans and their families.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans Trust Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Trust shall be a body corporate and shall have perpetual existence, subject to modification or termination by the General Assembly if necessary to effectuate its purpose or if its substantial purpose ceases to exist.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>gifts and grants that the Trust receives under § 9–914.2(a)(1) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>contributions to the Fund from:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the sale of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines under § 9–112(d) of this title;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the donations from video lottery facility players under § 9–1A–04(d)(19) of this title;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the designated fees from special registration plates for recipients of an individually earned, combat–related armed forces medal or a non–combat–related uniformed services medal of the highest levels under § 13–619.1 of the Transportation Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>civil penalties collected in accordance with § 9–905.1 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the net proceeds from contributions under the income tax checkoff established under § 2–117 of the Tax – General Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Money in the Fund may only be used to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>make grants and loans under § 9–914.2(a)(3) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be invested under § 9–914.3(b) of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>pay the costs of administering the Fund through distribution to an administrative cost account in the Department.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Money expended from the Fund is not intended to take the place of funding that would otherwise be appropriated to the Department.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-914" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The powers and duties of the Trust shall rest in and be exercised by a Board of Trustees.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board of Trustees shall consist of the following 12 members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Secretary, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee, who shall serve as the chair;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Aging, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Health, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of Disabilities, ex officio, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Adjutant General of the Military Department, ex officio, or the Adjutant General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>one representative of each of the following organizations, appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a veterans service organization;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a nonprofit organization that serves veterans; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the business community;</text> </level> </level> <level label="9"> <text>as an ex officio trustee, a member of the House of Delegates appointed by the Speaker of the House; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>as an ex officio trustee, a member of the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor shall consider geographical balance in making appointments to the Board of Trustees.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Except for the ex officio members or their designees:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the term of a member is 4 years;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on July 1, 2013;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>at the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a member who is appointed after a term has begun serves for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>a member may serve no more than 2 terms.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-914.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board shall meet at places and dates to be determined by the Board, but not less than 2 times a year.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A majority of the trustees is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A trustee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a trustee; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Department shall provide staff, supplies, and office space for the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-914.2" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Trust shall have the powers and duties to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>solicit and accept any gift, grant, legacy, or endowment of money from the federal government, State government, local government, or any private source in furtherance of the Trust;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>maintain the Fund, which shall consist of any gift, grant, legacy, or endowment provided to the Trust under item (1) of this subsection;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>expend money from the Fund to provide grants or loans to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>veterans and their families;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>members of the Maryland National Guard and their families;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>public and private programs that support veterans and their families; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any other programs that the Trust considers to be within the purpose for which the Trust is established;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>develop projects for sponsorship by corporate and business organizations or private individuals;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>make, execute, and enter into any contract or other legal instrument;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>receive appropriations as provided in the State budget;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>acquire, hold, use, improve, and convey property;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>lease and maintain an office at a place within the State that the Trust designates;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>adopt bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>take any other action necessary to carry out the purposes of the Trust;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>sue and be sued, but only to enforce contractual or similar agreements with the Trust; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>submit a report on or before August 31 of each year to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly, with recommendations or requests deemed appropriate to further the purposes of the Trust, and a description of the activities of the Trust during the preceding year, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the gross amount of gifts and grants credited to the Trust;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the costs of administration of the Trust; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a detailed accounting of the use of the Trust.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Trust may carry out its corporate purposes without obtaining the consent of any department, board, or agency of the State.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In exercising its powers, the Trust is exempt from the provisions of Division II of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-914.3" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>All money received by the Trust shall be deposited, as directed by the Trust, in any state or national bank, or federally or state–insured savings and loan associations located in the State having a total paid–in capital of at least $1,000,000. The trust department of any state or national bank or savings and loan association may be designated as a depository to receive any securities acquired or owned by the Trust. The restriction with respect to paid–in capital may be waived for any qualifying bank or savings and loan association that agrees to pledge securities of the state or of the United States to protect the funds and securities of the Trust in amounts and under arrangements acceptable to the Trust.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, any money of the Trust, in its discretion and unless otherwise provided in any agreement or covenant between the Trust and the holders of any of its obligations limiting or restricting classes of investments, may be invested in bonds or other obligations of the United States, the State, the political subdivisions or units of the State, direct or indirect federal agencies, corporate bonds with a rating of BAA3/BBB, or mortgage–backed and asset–backed securities with a rating of AAA.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The overall investment portfolio of the Trust must have a rating of at least AA.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Trust shall make provision for a system of financial accounting, controls, audits, and reports.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The books, records, and accounts of the Trust are subject to audit by the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-915" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>In this Part II of this subtitle, “Commission” means the Maryland Veterans Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-916" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans Commission in the Department that shall advise the Secretary of all matters pertaining to veterans issues.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-917" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>1 shall be appointed from each of the 8 congressional districts in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>1 shall be a veteran appointed from the State at large;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>1 shall be a woman veteran appointed from the State at large;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>1 shall be a representative of a retired enlisted organization;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>1 shall be a veteran of the Iraq or Afghanistan conflict, as defined in § 1–202(a–1) of the Public Safety Article; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>1 shall be appointed from a list of individuals submitted to the Governor by each of the following organizations:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the American Legion;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the AMVETS;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Catholic War Veterans;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Disabled American Veterans;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Fleet Reserve Association;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Jewish War Veterans;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Marine Corps League;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Maryland Military Officers Association of America;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Military Order of the Purple Heart;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Veterans of Foreign Wars;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Vietnam Veterans of America;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Korean War Veterans Association, Inc.;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>the National Association for Black Veterans;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>the Reserve Organization of America; and</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>an organization representing military families.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each member must be a resident of the State.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member is 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 1984.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>When an organization is no longer a part of the Commission, the appointment shall terminate at the end of the current member’s term.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>An organization’s representative seat may be removed if the organization fails to appoint a new commissioner for 2 continuous years.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>An organization may be removed from the Commission if a representative from the organization is not recommended by that organization.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-918" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>From among the members of the Commission, the Governor shall appoint a chair.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A vice chair shall be elected by a simple majority vote of the Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-919" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall determine the times and places of its meetings.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the Commission approves, is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Department shall provide staff support to the Commission in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-922" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans’ Home Commission in the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-923" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The purpose of the Maryland Veterans’ Home Commission is to advise the Department of issues related to State veterans homes.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The General Assembly declares the purpose of the Maryland Veterans’ Home Commission to be of general benefit to the veterans of the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-924" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>This Part III of this subtitle does not limit any power or activity of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a unit of the State government;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a political subdivision of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any person who is interested in veterans in the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-925" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Veterans’ Home Commission consists of the following 14 members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>11 individuals appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>as ex officio members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the President of the Senate; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Speaker of the House of Delegates.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member is 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Veterans’ Home Commission on October 1, 1984.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>As far as is practicable and is consistent with the purposes and goals of the Veterans’ Home Commission, the Governor shall choose appointed members so as to have a broad distribution from among:</text> <level label="1"> <text>veterans and veterans’ organizations; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the geographical areas of the State.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-926" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>From among its members, the Veterans’ Home Commission shall elect a chair, a secretary, and any other officers that the Commission considers appropriate.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The manner of election of officers and their terms of office shall be as the Veterans’ Home Commission determines.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-927" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>Seven members of the Veterans’ Home Commission are a quorum to do business.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Veterans’ Home Commission shall meet:</text> <level label="i"> <text>at least twice a year, at the times and places that it determines; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>at the call of the Chair, on the Chair’s initiative or on the request of at least 4 members.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Unless all of the members of the Veterans’ Home Commission agree otherwise, the secretary of the Commission shall give each member at least 7 days’ written notice of a meeting.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the President is unable to attend a meeting, the President may designate a Senator or an employee of the General Assembly to represent the President at the meeting.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If the Speaker is unable to attend a meeting, the Speaker may designate a Delegate or an employee of the General Assembly to represent the Speaker at the meeting.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If the Governor is unable to attend a meeting, the Governor may designate another individual to represent the Governor at the meeting.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A member of the Veterans’ Home Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-928" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>With the approval of the Secretary, the Veterans’ Home Commission may adopt procedures to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>govern itself; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>carry out the responsibilities of the Veterans’ Home Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not incur any expenses without the consent of the Department; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>at each regular meeting of the Commission or more often as it directs, shall submit to the Department a report on any action that the Commission has taken since its last report.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Veterans’ Home Commission shall through the Department submit an annual report:</text> <level label="i"> <text>to the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The annual report shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>describe the activities of the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>include any recommendations for furthering the purposes of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>As far as practicable, the Veterans’ Home Commission shall cooperate with persons and public agencies to carry out the purposes and goals of the Commission and Department.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-929" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The State is not obligated to provide capital or operating funds for the Veterans’ Home Commission but may appropriate money for the purposes and goals of the Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-932" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>In this Part IV of this subtitle, “Commission” means the War Memorial Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-933" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>There is a War Memorial Commission in the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-934" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of 10 members.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the 10 Commission members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>5 shall be appointed by the Secretary, with the approval of the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>5 shall be appointed by the Mayor of Baltimore City.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each member must be a Maryland war veteran.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member is 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of a member are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 1984.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-935" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>From among its members, the Commission may elect:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a chair;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a vice chair; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a secretary and a treasurer or a secretary–treasurer.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The manner of election of officers and their terms of office shall be as the Commission determines.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-936" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>A member of the Commission may not receive compensation.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If the Commission approves the reimbursement and records the vote in the minutes, a member is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-937" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The State and Baltimore City jointly shall hold title to the War Memorial Building and the memorial site.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-938" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission may provide for management of the War Memorial Building as provided in this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall adopt regulations that provide for the management of the War Memorial Building in a manner that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>permits the greatest possible use of the building by the people of the State and by patriotic organizations in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>to the extent possible, permits the use by the patriotic organizations without cost.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall enforce the regulations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission may appoint a custodian and a janitor for the War Memorial Building.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Commission may use, for the maintenance and administration of the building, any funds that the General Assembly or the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore appropriate for those purposes.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-940" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this part, “Program” means the Communications, Outreach, and Advocacy Program.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Communications, Outreach, and Advocacy Program in the Department.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to ensure that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>veterans, service members, and their families are informed of the services, benefits, and assistance available to them from the State and federal government and community organizations; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>general issues relating to veterans’, service members’, and their families’ needs are brought to the attention of the Governor and the General Assembly in order for them to be addressed.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-941" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Secretary shall appoint a director for the Program.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The director is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The director shall administer and coordinate the Program.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-942" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Program shall actively help veterans, service members, and their dependents become aware of and access any service or benefit to which they are entitled including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>tax benefits;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>health care benefits;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>disability benefits; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>pension benefits.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Program, in collaboration with the Maryland Higher Education Commission, shall actively help veterans, service members, and their dependents become aware of and access education and training benefits to which they are entitled.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The director of the Program shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>support veterans, service members, and their dependents through the service or benefit process; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>refer veterans, service members, their dependents, and their survivors to the appropriate governmental unit for claim assistance.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-943" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>For the purposes of reaching any veteran, service member, dependent of a veteran or service member, or survivor of a veteran or service member in need of assistance in obtaining services or benefits granted by the law, the director shall develop and implement a communications and outreach plan.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In order to carry out the director’s responsibilities under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the director may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>enter into contracts; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>work with governmental units and community–based organizations, including the Maryland Department of Health, the Department of Aging, faith–based groups, veterans groups, senior centers, adult day care centers, institutions of higher education, and other entities the director considers appropriate.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The director shall develop mechanisms for outreach to be disseminated by direct mail and through community–based veterans organizations, the Department, the Department of Human Services, the Maryland Department of Health, and any other State agency or unit the director considers appropriate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Communication mechanisms shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>designing marketing materials describing the services provided by the Program;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a regular electronic newsletter;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>brochures describing various benefits or any other issue or benefit of interest to veterans, service members, or their dependents; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>other measures the director considers appropriate.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Department shall communicate welcome home information to veterans and service members returning to the State.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Department, in conjunction with the types of community–based organizations listed in subsection (a)(2) of this section, shall develop communication tools to assist in identifying veterans, service members, and dependents who may be eligible for benefits and programs offered by the Department.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Program shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>manage the Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program and Fund established under Part VIII of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>coordinate the responsibilities of veterans’ services specialists designated under § 9–944 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>manage Department media relations, web content, social media, internal and external communications, customer service training, and intergovernmental relations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The director shall serve, as necessary, as the Secretary’s designee to appropriate commissions, workgroups, and councils.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-944" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “specialist” means an employee designated by a governmental unit who is responsible for responding to and assisting veterans who are employed by the unit or who contact the unit for assistance.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each governmental unit shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>designate an employee of the unit, who to the extent practicable is a veteran, as a veterans’ services specialist for the unit and whose duties include the coordination of veterans’ services with the Department;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide the Department with any nonprotected or nonprivate information about services the unit provides to veterans; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>post on the unit’s website:</text> <level label="i"> <text>all services available for veterans from the unit;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the contact information for the unit’s veterans’ services specialist; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a link to the Department with the contact information for the director of the Program in the Department.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The veterans’ services specialist shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>coordinate the provision of veterans’ services available through the unit with the Department; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>attend annual training that the Department provides concerning the coordination of veterans’ services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On request for services by a veteran, a governmental unit that does not provide services to veterans shall direct the veteran to contact the Department and provide the veteran with the Department contact information.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Department shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>coordinate a meeting each quarter, or as otherwise necessary, with governmental units to discuss and receive information concerning the implementation of the requirements of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on or before January 15 each year, report on the implementation of the requirements of this section to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-946" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Secretary shall submit a report by December 31 of each year to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly, that includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>requests for help in obtaining benefits;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>public contacts made by the Communications, Outreach, and Advocacy Program;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>veterans enrolled in the United States Veterans Health Administration; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>veterans receiving benefits;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the average amount of disability and pension benefits received by qualified individuals in this State compared to individuals in other states;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an account of the costs of operating the Communications, Outreach, and Advocacy Program;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a status of the accomplishments for, efficacy of, efficiency of, and level of resources available for each of the following programs:</text> <level label="i"> <text>cemetery;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>memorial;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>service;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>veterans homes;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>communications, outreach, and advocacy;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program and Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>veterans’ services specialists;</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>a general assessment of the status of veterans in the State;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the estimated impact current operations are likely to have on the needs of veterans in the future;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the status of federal veterans programs as they relate to Maryland veterans;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>a general assessment of communication methods utilized in support of the Communications, Outreach, and Advocacy Program;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>any other issues concerning veterans that the Secretary considers appropriate; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>any other issues concerning service members, including issues uniquely pertaining to active service members that the Secretary considers appropriate.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-949" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“College Collaboration” means the Maryland College Collaboration for Student Veterans, Memorandum of Understanding between the State and Maryland Institutions of Higher Education dated January 31, 2011.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Commission” means the Maryland College Collaboration for Student Veterans Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-950" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>There is a Maryland College Collaboration for Student Veterans Commission in the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-951" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the designee of the Secretary;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland, or the Chancellor’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the President of the Maryland Independent College and University Association, or the President’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges, or the Executive Director’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>one representative of any institution of higher education in the State that elects to participate, appointed by the President of the institution.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member is 2 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-952" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Commission shall elect annually a chair, a vice chair, and a secretary from among the members of the Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-953" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall meet at least four times each year.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may receive reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-954" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>work to ensure the educational success of returning veterans, including their recruitment, successful transition into higher education, retention, and eventual graduation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>facilitate the sharing of best practices among institutions of higher education and State agencies regarding academic transition programs and support services designed for returning veterans;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>work with institutions of higher education in the State to provide the following services to veterans, as set forth in the College Collaboration:</text> <level label="i"> <text>awareness of veteran reintegration challenges;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>communication and coordination of available veteran services;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a designated “one door” office that coordinates veteran services and supports;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>behavioral health services;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>financial aid and GI Bill support services; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>peer support groups;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>publish an annual report and any other material the Commission considers necessary; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>submit the annual report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-957" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Department of Veterans and Military Families"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Eligible family member” means a spouse or dependent of an eligible veteran.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Direct threat” has the meaning stated in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Eligible veteran” means a veteran who:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is a resident of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>receives treatment or care from a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or U.S. Department of Defense medical facility in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Fund” means the Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program Fund established under subsection (f) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Nonprofit training entity” means a corporation, a foundation, or any other legal entity that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is qualified under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>engages in the training of service dogs or support dogs for use by veterans; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>uses trained therapy horses for interaction with veterans; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>has been selected by the Department to provide services under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>“Program” means the Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program established under subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>“Program participant” means an eligible veteran or eligible family member who participates in the Program.</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>“Service dog” means a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>“Successful Program participant” means a Program participant who successfully completes the training or therapy protocol specified by a nonprofit training entity.</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>“Support dog” means a dog that is individually trained and that serves as an emotional support or therapy animal that a medical professional, within the medical professional’s scope of practice, has determined provides benefit for an individual with a sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>“Therapy horse” includes a horse determined appropriate for interactions with veterans by a stable licensed by the State that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH, Intl.) member center; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>has Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) certified professionals who provide services to veterans.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program in the Department.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purposes of the Program are to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>refer eligible veterans and eligible family members who inquire about participation in the Program to one or more nonprofit training entities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide additional funding mechanisms to assist veterans and eligible family members participating in the Program;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>encourage successful Program participants to assist in outreach and referral of other eligible veterans and eligible family members who could benefit from participation in the Program;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>assist in the reduction of the Maryland veteran suicide rate; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>identify potential capital projects and services to facilitate more services for veterans and eligible family members in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department shall select at least one nonprofit training entity to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>implement a training or therapy protocol for the purposes of the Program that will teach each Program participant methodologies, strategies, and techniques for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>partnering with service dogs or support dogs; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>interacting with therapy horses;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>select qualified Program participants from those eligible veterans and eligible family members referred to the nonprofit entity under the Program;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>select an appropriate service dog, support dog, or therapy horse, as applicable, for each Program participant;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>facilitate each Program participant’s training or therapy using the nonprofit training entity’s training or therapy protocol; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>unless the nonprofit training entity uses trained therapy horses, partner each successful Program participant with the service dog or support dog on the Program participant’s successful completion of the nonprofit training entity’s training protocol.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>To be eligible for selection under paragraph (1) of this subsection, a nonprofit entity must:</text> <level label="i"> <text>be based in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>serve the needs of the veteran population in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>generate its own revenue and reinvest the proceeds of that revenue in the growth and development of its programs.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>A nonprofit training entity may disqualify a Program participant from participation in the Program if the nonprofit training entity determines that the Program participant’s involvement in the Program:</text> <level label="i"> <text>presents a danger to the Program participant’s mental or physical well–being;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>presents a direct threat to others;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>presents a direct threat to the mental or physical well–being of the service dog, support dog, or therapy horse; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>does not meet the training requirement of the nonprofit training entity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A Program participant may discontinue involvement in the Program for any reason.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Department shall use revenue from the Fund to pay a nonprofit training entity.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Revenue from the Fund may be used only to pay:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a nonprofit training entity; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>administrative costs of the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Secretary, or the Secretary’s designee, shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>revenue collected by the Department in the form of donations to the Program;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>Money expended from the Fund is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>For the purpose of implementing this section, the Department may accept gifts or grants for donation to the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On or before October 1, 2018, and each October 1 thereafter, the Department shall post and maintain on its website a list containing the names of all persons who have donated to the Fund in the previous year and have authorized the Department to publish their names on its website.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Department shall adopt regulations to implement this section, including regulations establishing procedures for the Department to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>promote the Program to eligible veterans and eligible family members through the Department’s outreach methods;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>refer eligible veterans and eligible family members to selected nonprofit entities;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>receive donations for the Fund through a link placed in a prominent location on the Department’s website; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>use revenue from the Fund to pay selected nonprofit entities for services that are provided through the Program.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1001" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>In this Part I of this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Archives” means the State Archives.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Commission” means the Hall of Records Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1002" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a State Archives in the office of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Hall of Records Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1003" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <text>The Commission consists of the following 11 members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a member of the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a member of the House of Delegates appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Comptroller;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Treasurer who may appoint, as the Treasurer’s designee, a deputy treasurer;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of General Services;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the President of The Johns Hopkins University or a designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the President of the Maryland Historical Society;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the President of the St. John’s College or a designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland or a designee; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the President of the Morgan State University or a designee.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1004" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall meet at least quarterly at the times and places that the Commission determines.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Archives shall provide staff services for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall be an advisory body for the Archives.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall review and comment on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the proposed budget of the Archives;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>all proposed publications of the Archives; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>all proposed policies pertaining to the use of the Archives by the public.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1005" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>After consultation with the Commission, the Governor shall appoint a competent, qualified individual as State Archivist.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Archivist shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>be knowledgeable in subjects relevant to archival activities; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>possess experience in archival or related fields.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The State Archivist is entitled to a salary as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1006" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Archivist may appoint an Assistant State Archivist.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Assistant State Archivist has the powers and duties of the State Archivist:</text> <level label="i"> <text>to the extent delegated by the State Archivist;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if the office of the State Archivist is vacant; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>if for any other reason the State Archivist is unable to perform the duties of office.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The State Archivist may employ other staff in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1007" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to any powers set forth elsewhere, the State Archivist may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>adopt regulations to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>govern the Archives;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>manage the Hall of Records Building and other real and personal property that the Archives acquires;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>manage the records under the supervision of the Archives; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>define the categories of records in the report of the Records Management Division under § 10–611 of this article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>have a seal; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>on request, or at the State Archivist’s discretion, review, evaluate, and make recommendations to the General Assembly regarding State designations under Title 7 of the General Provisions Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>At the request of the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment, or the Chair of the House Government, Labor, and Elections Committee, the State Archivist shall review, evaluate, and make recommendations to the General Assembly regarding State designations under Title 7 of the General Provisions Article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Archivist may establish reasonable fees for the care and preservation of records and other services provided by the Archives.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Fees may be in the form of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a percentage not to exceed 2% of an existing fee charged at the time of the creation of a record in any form or format; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a flat rate subscription charge for a publication of the Archives.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Of the fees collected, 7% shall be deposited in the Archives Endowment Account of the State Archives Fund established under § 9–1013 of this subtitle as an educational and entrepreneurial reserve.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The State Archivist shall submit to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly an annual report on the activities of the Archives and the Commission during the preceding fiscal year.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1008" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The State Archivist may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>determine, in consultation with the Commission, the types of records and other information that the Archives will accept for safekeeping; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>acquire, as a gift or with money appropriated or given to the Archives for that purpose:</text> <level label="i"> <text>any record or other material that, in consultation with the Commission, the State Archivist considers worthy of preservation; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>other real or personal property.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The State Archivist:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall supervise and control the use of the State Hall of Records Building;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may equip and furnish the Building in accordance with law; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>subject to Title 2, Subtitles 4 and 5, Title 4, Subtitles 7 and 8, §§ 8–127, 8–128, and 8–129, Part V of Title 8, Subtitle 1, Title 10, Title 12, Subtitle 2, and §§ 13–219 and 13–221 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, shall supervise and control the use of any other real or personal property that the State acquires for use of the Archives.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The State Archivist shall provide the Commissioner of Land Patents with space in the State Hall of Records Building.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1009" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Archives may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>repair and preserve the records under the supervision of the State Archivist, as provided in the State budget;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make a copy of any record in the Archives; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>certify the copy.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Archives may publish, electronically or in print, indices to records, descriptions, summaries of record material, or original record material, in whole or in part, that are not otherwise restricted from access under existing law.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Archives shall index or provide other finding aids for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the historical records acquired under § 9–1010 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the land records in its custody under § 9–1011 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Archives may charge a reasonable fee for providing a copy of a record and for certifying the record.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If, with the written approval of a judge of a circuit court, the clerk of court asks for a copy of a land record that a court has transferred to the Commission or Archives, the Archives shall provide, without charge, a micrographic copy of the land record.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1010" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Archives:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall collect public and private records and other information that relate to the history of the province and State of Maryland from the earliest times, including church records and newspapers;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may edit and publish these records; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>shall encourage research into the history of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Any records and materials that relate to the history of Maryland and are not needed for the operation of a unit belong to the Archives and shall be under the supervision of the State Archivist.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1011" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Archives is the central depository for and custodian of each deed, title insurance policy, and other record that relates to real property acquired by the State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Archives may allow a unit of the State government to have custody of an original record that relates to real property acquired by the State, if the unit:</text> <level label="1"> <text>needs the record for the daily operation of the unit;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>demonstrates to the Archives that the unit will preserve the record adequately; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>deposits with the Archives a security microform copy of the record.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Archives shall receive, index, and file durable–backed, microfilm aperture card copies or electronic images of plats showing property or rights–of–way acquired or conveyed by the State Roads Commission and the State Highway Administration.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Archives electronically shall post an image of each plat on the Archives website (http://www.plats.net) for the county where the property or right–of–way is located.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The posted image shall conform to a generally accepted archival standard in quality and permanence.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The image shall include or be linked to a certification by the State Archivist that the image is an authentic representation of the plat received by the Archives.</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>Such certification by the State Archivist shall constitute a recordation of the plat.</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>The Archives may charge a reasonable fee to the State Roads Commission, the State Highway Administration, and the courts to recover the cost of electronically posting and maintaining the images of plats.</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>The Archives may charge a reasonable fee, not to exceed $3, to the public for the cost of reproducing a copy of a plat under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1012" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Archives may allow a unit of local government or its designee to have custody of an original local record if the unit or designee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>demonstrates that the unit or designee will preserve the record adequately; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>deposits with the Archives or permits the Archives to make a security microform copy of the record.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Archives may not destroy a local record unless the Archives:</text> <level label="1"> <text>offers the record to the appropriate local government or its designee; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the government or designee declines to accept the record.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1013" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a State Archives Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Comptroller shall credit to the State Archives Fund any money that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is appropriated or given to the Archives for publication of the series known as “The Archives of Maryland”;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is received from the sale of the series;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>is received from public grants and private contributions; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>is received from fees collected in accordance with § 9–1007(c) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may utilize the proceeds of public grants, private contributions, and fees collected under § 9–1007(c)(3) of this subtitle to create an Archives Endowment Account within the State Archives Fund, if this use is consistent with the terms of the public grants and private contributions.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an endowment is created, the principal of the endowment may not be expended, except pursuant to a recommendation of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Archives shall use money received by the State Archives Fund for “The Archives of Maryland” to prepare, edit, and publish volumes of the series, including reprints of unavailable volumes.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Archives may use other money in the Fund for the general dissemination of archival materials. This includes the preparation and distribution of books and other publications using archival materials.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Earnings from the endowment may be used for research on Maryland citizens who achieve national, State, or local prominence, for research on historical and geographical aspects of Maryland, and for an outreach program into the schools.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Treasurer shall invest money from the State Archives Fund, including money in the Archives Endowment Account, for the use of the Fund, and all earnings shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund, including earnings from the Archives Endowment Account, shall be made pursuant to an appropriation approved by the General Assembly in the annual State budget or by the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7–209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund is a continuing, nonlapsing fund which is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Fund and the Endowment Account are subject to audit by the Legislative Auditor.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1014" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The Archives may establish a consolidated publications account.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Archives may place in the consolidated publications account revenues from publications, the issuance of land patents, and services of the Archives. However, at the end of each fiscal year, the money in the account in excess of $50,000 shall revert to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Archives may use the consolidated publications account to produce, distribute, and promote any of the publications of the Archives, except the Maryland Manual.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1015" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Certified or abridged copy” means a copy of a restricted vital record that contains only the personal information that appears on the certificate of birth and does not include any confidential medical information appearing on the certificate.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Health.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Extract” means the following information from a restricted vital record:</text> <level label="i"> <text>full names;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>birthplaces of parents; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>date and place of birth or death.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“File” means to present for registration at the Department any certificate of birth, death, adoption, marriage, divorce, or annulment.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Restricted vital record” means a certificate of birth that pertains to a birth that occurred fewer than 100 years prior to the request for the record or to a death that occurred fewer than 10 years prior to the request for the record.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>“Unrestricted vital record” means a record in the custody of the Archives, including one obtained from the Department by the Archives, that pertains to a birth that occurred more than 100 years prior to the request for the record, or to any marriage license, to a report of absolute divorce or annulment of marriage, or to a death that occurred more than 10 years prior to the request for the record.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>“Vital record” means a record of birth, death, marriage, absolute divorce, or marriage annulment required by law to be filed with the Department.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Upon request of the Archives, the Department shall provide the Archives with vital records and indexes of vital records that are in the custody of the Department.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Vital records and indexes may be copied by the Archivist in any manner.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Upon request, the Archives may only disclose and provide copies of vital records to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an individual who is lawfully entitled under § 4–217(b)(1) of the Health – General Article to obtain a certified or abridged copy of a restricted vital record from the Department or any other original custodian;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an individual who requests an unrestricted vital record; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an individual who has evidence of the death of the person in the restricted vital record.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An individual may examine and obtain a copy of indexes that pertain to vital records that are in the custody of the Archives.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An individual may obtain an extract of a restricted vital record.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>An individual may obtain from the Archives a certified copy of the original of a vital record that may be examined under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Archives may charge a reasonable fee to cover the expense of copying vital records or indexes to a vital record, to make extracts from restricted vital records or to undertake a search for vital records.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>An individual may not request a copy of vital records, indexes to vital records, or extracts from restricted vital records for the purpose of commercial solicitation or private gain.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Archives may require an individual to state the individual’s intended use of the information obtained under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Under this section, the copying and use of vital records for disclosure, the disclosure of vital records, or extracts of restricted vital records or indexes does not violate the rule of confidentiality in a provision of law, including Title 10, Subtitle 6 of this article or § 4–224 of the Health – General Article.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Archives is not liable to an individual for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>errors in indexing or extracting information from vital records; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>reasonable reliance on evidence that the person in a restricted vital record is deceased.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Unless a record has been transferred to the custody of the Archives, the information disclosed under this section does not constitute an official record.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1016" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <text>In this Part II of this subtitle, “Commission” means the Commission on Artistic Property.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1017" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <text>There is a Commission on Artistic Property in the State Archives.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1018" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of 15 members, 7 of whom are institutional members and 8 of whom are public members.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The institutional members are the chief executive officers, or their designees, of the following institutions:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Academy of the Arts in Easton;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Baltimore Museum of Art;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Maryland Historical Society;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Maryland Institute, College of Art in Baltimore;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the Peabody Institute;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>Walters Art Gallery; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Hagerstown.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The State Archivist shall appoint the public members with the approval of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The State Archivist shall seek to include representatives of the historical museums of the State among the public members.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The public members serve at the pleasure of the State Archivist.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>From time to time, with the approval of the Governor, the State Archivist shall designate a public member of the Commission to serve as chairman.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1019" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may employ a professional staff, in accordance with the State budget. The Commission may also contract for a curator and for the services of the Archivist of the Peabody Institute to act as curator of some or all of the objects in the Peabody Art Collection once that collection becomes the property of the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1020" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>With the approval of the Governor and the State Archivist, the Commission may accept, on behalf of the State:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a gift of any painting or other object of decorative art; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a loan of any painting or other object of decorative art.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall care for any object of decorative art accepted under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>With the approval of the Governor, the State Archivist:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may accept a gift of money from any public or private source; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall administer and use the gift of money in accordance with any conditions of the gift.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission is the official custodian of all valuable paintings and other objects of decorative art owned by or loaned to the State, except those located in a State room of the Government House. With respect to the objects subject to its official custody, the Commission shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>keep a continuing inventory of the objects; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be responsible for and supervise the acquisition, custody, display, location, preservation, proper care, security, and restoration of the objects.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At such time as the State acquires the Peabody Art Collection from the Peabody Institute, the Commission shall become the official custodian of the Collection.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In exercising its custodial responsibilities, the Commission may loan objects owned by the State to qualified institutions and may contract with such institutions for the performance of curatorial services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Each person or agency that desires to acquire a painting or object of decorative art for display in or on the premises of any State building, except in a room of the Government House, must receive both prior approval and final acceptance from the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Before giving prior approval or final acceptance in accordance with this subsection, the Commission shall consider:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the competence of the artist;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the proposed location of the object; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the quality, historical significance, and appropriateness of the work.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>This subtitle does not apply to artwork acquired through the Maryland Public Art Initiative Program established under Title 4, Subtitle 6 of the Economic Development Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1022" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <text>As to all paintings or other objects of decorative art in the State rooms of the Government House, the Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Government House Trust about acquisition and display of the objects;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>insure the objects; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>be responsible for the preservation of the objects.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1023" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <text>In performing its responsibilities in or on the premises of any State building, the Commission shall seek the advice of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates for any State building used by the Legislative Branch of the State government;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Governor for any State building used by the Executive Branch of the State government; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland for any State building used by the Judicial Branch of the State government.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1026" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="State Archives and Artistic Property"> <level label="a"> <text>The State Archives shall compile, edit, and publish an online Maryland Manual that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>describes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the State and its government, including State, interstate, regional, county, intercounty, and municipal government; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>federal officials and agencies directly related to the State; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>contains:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a copy of the Maryland Constitution;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the name of each officer of the State, a county, or a municipality who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>elected;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>appointed by the Governor; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>appointed by the Board of Public Works; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any other information that, in consultation with the Hall of Records Commission, the State Archivist considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>As provided in the State budget, the State Archives shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>update the Maryland Manual as necessary to maintain the accuracy of the information; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>annually preserve a version of the Maryland Manual that contains all changes made to the Maryland Manual under item (1) of this subsection in the immediately preceding year.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>To the extent practicable, the State Archivist shall provide outreach to public schools, public libraries, and the general public to increase awareness regarding the availability and content of the Maryland Manual.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1401" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="14" subtitle_name="Sustainable Growth Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Subcabinet” means the Sustainable Growth Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Sustainable growth policy” means the State Economic Growth, Resource Protection, and Planning Policy set forth in § 5–7A–01 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1402" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="14" subtitle_name="Sustainable Growth Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>The General Assembly finds that the State is committed to addressing the high financial, social, and environmental costs of sprawl development through effective sustainable growth policy.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of this subtitle is to establish a centralized office in the State in a manner such that the policy of sustainable growth can be better articulated, coordinated, and implemented in order to better serve the residents of the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1403" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="14" subtitle_name="Sustainable Growth Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Sustainable Growth Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Subcabinet consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Secretary of Agriculture;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Budget and Management;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Emergency Management;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of the Environment;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of General Services;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Higher Education;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Assistant Secretary of the Office of Neighborhood Revitalization;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of Natural Resources;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Secretary of Planning;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>a representative of the Governor’s office;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the Secretary of Health;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>the Secretary of Labor; and</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Executive Director of the National Center for Smart Growth Education and Research at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus shall serve as an ex officio member of the Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Secretary of Planning shall chair the Subcabinet and shall be responsible for the oversight, direction, and accountability of the work of the Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Secretary of Housing and Community Development shall be the vice chair of the Subcabinet.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Department of Planning shall provide the primary staff support for the Subcabinet and serve as its primary office.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Secretary of Planning may call upon any of the Subcabinet members to provide additional staff assistance as needed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Secretary of Planning may establish subcommittees to carry out the work of the Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Subcabinet shall meet regularly at such times and places as it determines.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The Subcabinet shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide a forum for discussion of interdepartmental issues relating to activities that affect growth, development, neighborhood vitality, and resource management;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>work together using all available resources to promote the understanding of sustainable growth;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>work together to create, enhance, support, and revitalize equitable and sustainable communities across the State;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>meet at least biannually with county and municipal elected leaders and planning officials to discuss local government issues relating to activities that affect equitable and resilient growth, development, neighborhood vitality, and resource management;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, make recommendations to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Department of Commerce in accordance with § 5–1304 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Department of Housing and Community Development in accordance with § 6–206 of the Housing and Community Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Department of Planning in accordance with § 5A–303 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Department of Transportation in accordance with § 7–101 of the Transportation Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>in coordination with State agencies, evaluate and report annually to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on the implementation of the State’s sustainable growth policy; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>perform other duties assigned by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The failure of the Subcabinet to make a recommendation under paragraph (1)(v) of this subsection may not be construed as prohibiting a department to act in accordance with the department’s authority under State law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>The annual report required in subsection (h)(1) of this section shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a description of the projects, programs, and costs of activities located in priority funding areas;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a description of projects, programs, and costs of activities funded under the exceptions allowed in § 5–7B–06 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>projects submitted to the Board of Public Works for funding outside priority funding areas under the extraordinary circumstances exception in accordance with § 5–7B–05 of the State Finance and Procurement Article and the impact of these projects upon the State’s sustainable growth policy;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a list of programs and policies reviewed and changed to ensure compliance with the State’s sustainable growth policy; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>a list of projects or programs approved and funded under Chapter 759, § 2 of the Acts of 1997.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1405" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="14" subtitle_name="Sustainable Growth Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to any other powers and duties imposed by law, the Subcabinet has the powers and duties set forth in this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Subcabinet shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>review State assistance programs related to sustainable growth to determine their applicability, if any, to projects that are consistent with the State’s sustainable growth policy;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>promote interagency consensus and cooperation on projects that are consistent with the State’s sustainable growth policy and resolve conflicting agency positions on projects in an expedited manner;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>provide advisory and technical assistance to local jurisdictions and to the public in preparing, financing, and developing sustainable growth and neighborhood vitality projects;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>gather and disseminate information to the public, including local jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, and developers on how to develop projects that are consistent with the State’s sustainable growth policy;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>provide a single point of access for members of the public, including local jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, developers, and community and homeowners’ associations who need assistance or guidance in navigating the processes and regulations of State agencies on projects that are consistent with the State’s sustainable growth policy;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>work with local governments in expediting review of projects that both the local government and the State agree are consistent with the State’s sustainable growth policy;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>provide effective public information on sustainable growth programs and educational activities, including relationships with the National Center for Smart Growth Education and Research at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus, and coordination of sustainable growth outreach efforts to local governments, the general public, and other interest groups;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>coordinate the efforts of the Executive Branch to provide input to the General Assembly on legislation that concerns sustainable growth and neighborhood vitality; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>recommend to the Governor changes to State law and regulations necessary to advance the policy of sustainable growth.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1601" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>This subtitle does not apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any unit of the Judicial Branch;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any unit of the Legislative Branch;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Comptroller of the Treasury;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the incarcerated individual adjustment hearing officers;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Public Service Commission;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the State Workers’ Compensation Commission;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Parole Commission;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Health Services Cost Review Commission;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Maryland Health Care Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>unemployment insurance benefit determinations and employer obligation determinations in the Maryland Department of Labor, and appeals from those determinations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (a) of this section, this subtitle shall apply to each agency that employs or engages one or more hearing officers to adjudicate contested cases unless the agency has been exempted by the Governor under subsection (c) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Until July 1, 1994, the Governor may temporarily exempt an agency from this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1602" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <text>The Office of Administrative Hearings is created as an independent unit in the Executive Branch of State government.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1603" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office is headed by a Chief Administrative Law Judge appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>be appointed for a term of 6 years;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>devote full time to the duties of the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>be eligible for reappointment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>receive the salary provided in the State budget;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be admitted to practice law in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>have the powers and duties specified in this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1604" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>supervise the Office of Administrative Hearings;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish qualifications for administrative law judges;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>appoint and remove administrative law judges in accordance with § 9–1605 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>assign administrative law judges to conduct hearings in contested cases or cases to determine eligibility for compensation and benefits under § 10–501 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>if necessary, establish classifications for case assignment on the basis of subject matter, expertise, and case complexity;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>establish and implement standard and specialized training programs and provide materials for administrative law judges;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>provide and coordinate continuing education programs and services for administrative law judges, including research, technical assistance, technical and professional publications, compiling and disseminating information, and advise of changes in the law relative to their duties;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>develop model rules of procedure and other guidelines for administrative hearings;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>develop a code of professional responsibility for administrative law judges; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>monitor the quality of State administrative hearings.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>serve as an administrative law judge in a contested case or a case to determine eligibility for compensation and benefits under § 10–501 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>furnish administrative law judges on a contractual basis to other governmental entities;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>accept and expend funds, grants, and gifts and accept services from any public or private source;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>enter into agreements and contracts with any public or private agencies or educational institutions;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>adopt regulations to implement this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>assess fees to cover administrative expenses as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to file an appeal, a fee not exceeding:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>$150 for an appeal of a driver’s license suspension or revocation related to a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>$50 for all other types of appeals; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to process a subpoena, a fee not exceeding $5.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Fees charged under paragraph (1) of this subsection for administrative expenses may not be charged to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>State agencies; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>petitioners who are determined by the Office of Administrative Hearings to be unable to pay the fees.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A fee charged under paragraph (1) of this subsection for filing an appeal shall be refunded to a party who initiates the appeal if the party receives a favorable decision from the administrative law judge.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge shall submit an annual report on the activities of the Office to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>This report may be prepared in conjunction with the annual report required under § 9–1610 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Chief Administrative Law Judge shall meet and confer regularly with the Advisory Council on Administrative Hearings.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1605" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>An administrative law judge:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be a special appointment in the State Personnel Management System;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may be removed, suspended, or demoted by the Chief Administrative Law Judge for cause, after notice and an opportunity to be heard;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>shall receive the compensation provided in the State budget; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>may not perform duties inconsistent with the duties and responsibilities of an administrative law judge.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An administrative law judge may not be responsible to or subject to the supervision or direction of an officer, employee, or agent engaged in the performance of investigative, prosecuting, or advisory functions for an agency.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In any contested case conducted by an administrative law judge, the administrative law judge may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>authorize the issuance of subpoenas for witnesses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>administer oaths;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>examine an individual under oath; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>compel the production of documents or other tangible things.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Without good cause, a person may not refuse an order by any administrative law judge to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>appear for a hearing;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>testify under oath; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>produce any relevant evidence, including documents or other tangible things.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>An administrative law judge may apply, upon affidavit, to any judge of a circuit court for an order, returnable in not less than 2 nor more than 5 days, to show cause why a person should not be committed to jail for refusal to comply with an order issued under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On the return of an order issued under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, if the judge hearing the matter determines that the person is guilty of refusal to comply with the order of the administrative law judge, the judge may commit the offender to jail as in cases of civil contempt.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1606" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>All units of State government shall cooperate with the Chief Administrative Law Judge in the discharge of his duties.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Office shall be subject to audit and examination by the Office of Legislative Audits of the Department of Legislative Services under § 2-1220 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as provided in this subtitle or in regulations adopted under this subtitle, an agency may not select or reject a particular administrative law judge for a particular proceeding.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1607" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <text>If the Office is unable to assign an administrative law judge in response to an agency request, the Chief Administrative Law Judge shall designate in writing an individual to serve as an administrative law judge in a proceeding before the agency if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the individual meets the qualifications for an administrative law judge established by the Office under § 9-1604(a)(2) of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the agency that employs the individual consents to the assignment.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1607.1" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>An individual who is not licensed to practice law in this State may represent a party in a proceeding before the Office if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>authorized by law;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the individual is representing:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a recipient of or applicant for benefits that are:</text> <level label="1"> <text>based on the recipient’s or applicant’s income and resources; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provided by the Department of Human Services or the Maryland Department of Health;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a resident of a facility at a proceeding conducted under § 19–344(q)(4) or § 19–345.1 of the Health – General Article;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a health care facility, as defined in § 10–101 of the Health – General Article, at a proceeding under the provisions of § 10–632 or § 10–708 of the Health – General Article or § 3–121 of the Criminal Procedure Article; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a grievant at a proceeding conducted pursuant to Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the Correctional Services Article concerning a grievance submitted to the Inmate Grievance Office, provided the representation is not otherwise restricted for reasons of security or expense pursuant to regulations, rules, directives, or policies adopted by the Division of Correction or Patuxent Institution;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the individual is a designee of a corporation while appearing on its behalf in an administrative proceeding held under § 27–613 of the Insurance Article;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the individual is an officer of a corporation, an employee designated by an officer of a corporation, a general partner in a business operated as a partnership or an employee designated by a general partner, or an employee designated by the owner of a business operated as a sole proprietorship while the officer, partner, or employee is appearing on behalf of the corporation, partnership, or business in an administrative hearing held under:</text> <level label="i"> <text>§ 8–312 of the Business Regulation Article (Home Improvement Commission);</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Title 5 of the Labor and Employment Article (Occupational Safety and Health); or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>regulations adopted pursuant to § 14–303 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, concerning the decertification of a minority business enterprise to conduct business with the Department of Transportation;</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>in the case of an insurer, the individual is a designee of the insurer who:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is employed by the insurer in claims, underwriting, or as otherwise provided by the Commissioner; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>has been given the authority by the insurer to resolve all issues involved in the proceeding; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the individual is representing a unit of State government, at the direction of the unit of State government.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>An employee designated by a business entity under subsection (a)(3) or (4) of this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall provide the Office a power of attorney sworn to by the employer that certifies that the designated employee is an authorized agent of the business entity and may bind the business entity on matters pending before the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>may not be a disbarred or suspended lawyer in any state.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A business entity may not contract, hire, or employ another business entity, other than an attorney, to provide appearance services under subsection (a)(3) or (4) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An employee designated by a business entity under subsection (a)(4) of this section may not be assigned on a full–time basis to appear in administrative hearings before the Office on behalf of the business entity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>This section may not be interpreted to limit the right of an individual to appear on the individual’s own behalf.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1607.2" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to subsection (b) of this section, regulations adopted in accordance with § 10–206(a)(1) of this article shall apply to a proceeding before the Office, regardless of whether the proceeding is subject to Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article (Administrative Procedure Act – Contested Cases).</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Unless a federal or State law or regulation requires that a federal or State procedure shall be observed, the regulations specified in subsection (a) of this section shall take precedence in the event of a conflict.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1608" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a State Advisory Council on Administrative Hearings.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Council consists of 10 members.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Of the 10 Council members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>1 shall be a member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>1 shall be a member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>1 shall be the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>1 shall be a nongovernmental attorney who practices before the Office of Administrative Hearings;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>2 shall be secretaries or designees from departments involved in the adjudication of contested cases;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>2 shall represent the Maryland State Bar Association; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>2 shall be from the general public.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the members specified in subsection (c)(4) through (7) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Of the members appointed under subsection (c) of this section, not more than 5 shall be attorneys who practice before the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1609" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member of the Council is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Council on January 1, 1990.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member is eligible to serve more than 1 term.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A member of the Council may not receive compensation, but is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Council shall designate a chairman from among its members.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1610" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="16" subtitle_name="Office of Administrative Hearings"> <level label="a"> <text>The Council shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Chief Administrative Law Judge in carrying out his duties;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>identify issues of importance to administrative law judges that should be addressed by the Chief Administrative Law Judge;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>review issues and problems relating to administrative hearings and the administrative process;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>review and comment upon policies and regulations proposed by the Chief Administrative Law Judge;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>advise the Governor as to those agencies for which a continuing exemption under § 9–1601 of this subtitle should be maintained as consistent with the purposes of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>submit an annual report, which may be prepared in conjunction with the report required under § 9–1604 of this subtitle and is subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the Legislative Policy Committee of the General Assembly, including a list of the agencies that are exempted from this subtitle under § 9–1601(c) of this subtitle and the reasons for the exemptions.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Council shall meet at a regular time and place to be determined by the Council.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-1901" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="19" subtitle_name="Assisted Living Programs Board"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Assisted Living Programs Board established to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>develop statewide policy on assisted living programs;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>coordinate agency responsibility for implementation of policies and programs related to assisted living;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>review and approve policies and regulations governing assisted living programs; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>establish appropriate interagency agreements relative to assisted living programs.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board consists of 15 voting members as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Secretary of Health;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Aging; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the following voting members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one representative of the Disability Law Center;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one representative of a small program that was certified as a sheltered housing project by the Department of Aging as of December 31, 1995, or could have been certified as a sheltered housing project by the Department of Aging if it had been in existence on December 31, 1995;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one representative of a small program that was certified as a care program by the Department of Human Services as of December 31, 1995, or could have been certified as a care program by the Department of Human Services if it had been in existence on December 31, 1995;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one representative of a small program that was licensed or registered as a domiciliary care program by the Maryland Department of Health as of December 31, 1995, or could have been licensed or registered as a domiciliary care program by the Maryland Department of Health if it had been in existence on December 31, 1995;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>four consumer members;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>one representative of the Assisted Living Facilities Association of America;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Homes for the Aging;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>one representative of the Health Facilities Association of Maryland; and</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>one representative of the Long–Term Care Association.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor shall appoint a chairperson of the Board from among the three State agency representatives to the Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the provider and consumer members from the recommendations of organizations representing assisted living program providers and consumers.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Governor is not restricted to these recommendations in appointing members.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The provider and consumer members shall represent a broad geographic cross section of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The term of a member who is not a cabinet member or who does not represent the Maryland Disability Law Center or the Department of Aging is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Each member of the Board shall serve without compensation but shall be entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Board may establish its own procedures and voting requirements.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Departments of Health, Human Services, and Aging shall provide the Board with the necessary staff and support services.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2001" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administration” means the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Director” means the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2002" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <text>The Administration is established as a separate unit of State government.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>With the approval of the Governor, the Administration shall implement and administer conservation, allocation, or other energy programs or measures under State law or federal laws, orders, or regulations.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor shall appoint a Director of the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall have the staff provided for in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2003" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide advisory, consultative, training, and educational services, technical assistance, grant and loan funds therefor, and financial assistance to any municipality, county, State unit, local public agency, nonprofit organization, or private entity, in order to establish or carry out sound energy policies or practices, including energy management and energy conservation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assume those responsibilities delegated to the State energy offices in accordance with the orders, rules, and regulations adopted under any federal laws relating to the allocation, conservation, development, or consumption of energy resources or any other delegation of federal authority pertaining to energy;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>evaluate and coordinate energy related policies and activities among all agencies of the Executive Branch of the State and, where appropriate, those of the various local governments;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>collect, analyze, and evaluate statistics and information related to energy use, conservation, consumption, and energy production and coordinate information related to energy resources, including electricity, natural gas, and the production of oil and natural gas, with the Public Service Commission, the Power Plant Research Program, and the Maryland Geological Survey;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>serve as liaison between federal and State agencies for all matters related to energy and maintain liaison with energy agencies in other states;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>develop and conduct education and communications programs for and disseminate informative materials to the public on energy production, supply, and conservation;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>provide for, encourage, and assist, where practicable, public participation in the development and dissemination of energy programs;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>in cooperation with the Department of General Services, monitor the energy savings accrued by the energy management and conservation efforts undertaken by agencies of State government;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>coordinate and direct integrated energy planning for State agencies and the public that recognizes the benefits and costs of energy conservation and improved efficiency;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>promote the transfer and commercialization of energy conservation methods and energy technology from private and public laboratories to the citizens of the State;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>cooperate and coordinate with other State agencies in the research and development of energy conservation methods and alternative energy technologies; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>develop strategic plans and implement policies relating to energy supply management, including the promotion and supervision of research on alternative fuels and energy emergency management.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2004" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <text>The Administration shall assist the Department of General Services in considering the most economical and efficient alternative for meeting the annual heating oil requirements of State agencies.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2005" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <text>The Administration shall have the following additional duties and responsibilities concerning the State’s preparedness for, and management of, general energy emergencies and shortfalls:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to prepare contingency plans for mitigating the impact of any severe shortage of fuel resources, including middle distillate oil, motor gasoline, residual fuel oil, and propane gas, on various classes of consumers;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to work with the United States Department of Energy in preparing and training for an energy emergency response;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>to maintain communications, including computerized electronic communication, with the United States Department of Energy and with neighboring states to obtain and share energy data pertaining to energy emergencies; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>to collect, analyze, evaluate, and maintain on a proprietary basis so as to preserve the confidentiality of its source, data related to managing any energy emergency or shortfall.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2006" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>“Air purifier”, also known as a “room air cleaner”, means an electric, cord–connected, portable appliance that primarily functions to remove particulate matter from the air.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Air purifier” does not include indoor air cleaning devices that are manufactured, advertised, marketed, and labeled for industrial use.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Commercial dishwasher” means a machine designed to clean and sanitize dinnerware, flatware, cooking utensils, and similar items by applying sprays of detergent solution and a sanitizing rinse.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>“Commercial steam cooker”, also known as a “compartment steamer”, means a device with one or more food–steaming compartments in which the energy in the steam is transferred to the food by direct contact.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Commercial steam cooker” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>countertop models;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>wall–mounted models; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>floor models mounted on a stand, pedestal, or cabinet–style base.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Electric vehicle supply equipment” means the fittings, devices, and apparatuses installed specifically for the purpose of delivering energy from a premises’ wiring to an all–electric or hybrid vehicle.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>“Faucet” means a fitting that controls and guides the flow of water in a water supply system.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Faucet” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a private lavatory faucet;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a public lavatory faucet;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a residential kitchen faucet; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a replacement aerator for a private lavatory faucet, public lavatory faucet, or residential kitchen faucet.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Faucet” does not include a metering faucet.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <level label="i"> <text>“High color rendering index fluorescent lamp” or “high CRI fluorescent lamp” means a fluorescent lamp with a color rendering index of 87 or greater.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“High color rendering index fluorescent lamp” does not include a compact fluorescent lamp.</text> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>“Portable electric spa” means a factory–built electric spa or hot tub that includes water–heating or water–circulating equipment.</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>“Public lavatory faucet” means a faucet designed to be installed in a public bathroom.</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>“Replacement aerator” means an aerator sold:</text> <level label="i"> <text>as a replacement; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>separately from the faucet to which the aerator was intended to be attached.</text> </level> </level> <level label="11"> <text>“Residential ventilating fan” means a ceiling fan, wall–mounted fan, or a fan mounted outside the area to be ventilated (also known as a remotely mounted fan) that is designed to move air from inside a building to the outdoors, such as fans used in a bathroom or utility room.</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>“Retailer” means a person engaged in the business of making retail sales within the State.</text> </level> <level label="13"> <level label="i"> <text>“Showerhead” means a device or set of devices that is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>attached to a single water supply fitting; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>used for spraying water for bathing.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Showerhead” includes a showerhead that can be held or fixed in place and connected by a flexible hose (also known as a hand–held showerhead).</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Showerhead” does not include safety equipment such as eyewash stations or drench showers.</text> </level> </level> <level label="14"> <text>“Spray sprinkler body” means the exterior case or shell of a sprinkler that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>includes a method for connecting to the water system piping; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>houses a spray nozzle that applies water to the ground.</text> </level> </level> <level label="15"> <level label="i"> <text>“Urinal” means a plumbing fixture that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is designed to receive only liquid body waste; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>conveys the waste through a trap into a drainage system.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Urinal” does not include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>urinals designed and marketed exclusively for use at prisons or mental health facilities; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>trough–type urinals.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="16"> <level label="i"> <text>“Water closet” means a plumbing fixture having a water–containing receptacle designed to receive liquid and solid body waste and convey the waste through an integral trap into a drainage system.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Water closet” includes a water closet incorporating a feature that allows the user to flush the water closet with either a reduced load or a full volume of water, also known as a dual–flush water closet.</text> </level> </level> <level label="17"> <level label="i"> <text>“Water cooler” means a freestanding device that uses energy to cool or heat potable water.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Water cooler” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>cold only units that dispense only cold water;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>hot and cold units that dispense both hot and cold water;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>cook and cold units that dispense both cold and room temperature water; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>storage–type units that store thermally conditioned water in a tank inside the water cooler that is available instantaneously, including point–of–use, dry storage compartment, and bottled water coolers.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="18"> <text>“Widely available in Maryland” means a conforming product available in the State from three or more manufacturers.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>This section applies to the testing, certification, and enforcement of efficiency standards for the following types of new products sold, offered for sale, or installed for profit in the State:</text> <level label="i"> <text>electric vehicle supply equipment;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>high CRI fluorescent lamps;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>portable electric spas;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>air purifiers;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>commercial dishwashers;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>commercial steam cookers;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>faucets;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>residential ventilating fans;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>showerheads;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>spray sprinkler bodies;</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>urinals;</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>water closets; and</text> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>water coolers.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>This section does not apply to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>new products manufactured in the State and sold outside the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>new products manufactured outside the State and sold at wholesale inside the State for final retail sale and installation outside the State;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>products installed in mobile manufactured homes at the time of construction;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>products designed expressly for installation and use in recreational vehicles or marine vessels; or</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>products to be sold at retail that are in stock at the retail establishment before the effective date of any efficiency standard regulation for that item.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before January 1, 2023, the Administration:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall review minimum efficiency standards regulations for the new products specified in subsection (b)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>may adopt new regulations establishing minimum efficiency standards for the new products specified in subsection (b)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Beginning October 1, 2024, a new product specified in subsection (b)(1)(i) or (ii) of this section may not be sold or offered for sale in the State unless the efficiency of the new product meets or exceeds the efficiency standards specified in regulations adopted, if any, under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>This paragraph does not apply to a product that is sold before the regulations adopted, if any, under paragraph (1) of this subsection are in effect.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Beginning October 1, 2025, a new product specified in subsection (b)(1)(i) or (ii) of this section may not be installed for profit in the State unless the efficiency of the new product meets or exceeds the efficiency standards specified in regulations adopted, if any, under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>On or before January 1, 2023, the Administration shall adopt regulations establishing minimum efficiency standards for the new products specified in subsection (b)(1)(iii) through (xiii) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The regulations shall provide for the following minimum efficiency standards:</text> <level label="1"> <text>air purifiers shall meet the following requirements as measured in accordance with the Energy Star Program Requirements Product Specification for Room Air Cleaners, Version 2.0:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>the clean air delivery rate for smoke must be 30 or greater;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>for models with a clean air delivery rate for smoke of less than 100, the clean air delivery rate per watt for smoke must be greater than or equal to 1.7;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>for models with a clean air delivery rate for smoke greater than or equal to 100 and less than 150, the clean air delivery rate per watt for smoke must be greater than or equal to 1.9;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>for models with a clean air delivery rate for smoke greater than or equal to 150, the clean air delivery rate per watt for smoke must be greater than or equal to 2.0;</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>for ozone–emitting models, measured ozone must be less than or equal to 50 parts per billion;</text> </level> <level label="F"> <text>for models with a Wi–Fi network connection enabled by default when shipped, partial on–mode power may not exceed 2 watts; and</text> </level> <level label="G"> <text>for models without a Wi–Fi network connection enabled by default when shipped, partial on–mode power may not exceed 1 watt;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>commercial dishwashers must meet the applicable qualification criteria specified in the Energy Star Program Requirements Product Specification for Commercial Dishwashers, Version 2.0;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>commercial steam cookers must meet the requirements specified in the Energy Star Program Requirements Product Specification for Commercial Steam Cookers, Version 1.2;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>faucets must meet the following standards when tested in accordance with 10 C.F.R. § 430, Subpart B, Appendix S, compliance with which must be verified by using the Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Water Consumption of Faucets and Showerheads in effect on January 1, 2020:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>lavatory faucets and replacement aerators must not exceed a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 pounds per square inch;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>residential kitchen faucets and replacement aerators must not exceed a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 pounds per square inch, with optional temporary flow of 2.2 gallons per minute provided the faucet defaults to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 pounds per square inch after each use; and</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>public lavatory faucets and replacement aerators must not exceed a maximum flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute at 60 pounds per square inch;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>portable electric spas must meet the requirements of the American National Standard for Portable Electric Spa Energy Efficiency specifically known as ANSI/APSC/ICC 14–2019;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>residential ventilating fans must meet the following requirements when tested in accordance with the Home Ventilation Institute’s HVI Airflow Test Procedure (HVI Publication 916):</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>in–line residential ventilating fans must be equipped with a fan motor with an efficiency of at least 2.8 cubic feet per minute per watt; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>non–in–line residential ventilating fans must be equipped with a fan motor with an efficiency of at least 1.4 cubic feet per minute per watt for airflows less than 90 cubic feet per minute and at least 2.8 cubic feet per minute per watt for airflows greater than or equal to 90 cubic feet per minute;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>showerheads must not exceed a maximum flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute at 80 pounds per square inch when tested in accordance with 10 C.F.R. § 430, Subpart B, Appendix S, compliance with which must be verified by using the Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Water Consumption of Faucets and Showerheads in effect on January 1, 2020;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>spray sprinkler bodies that are not specifically excluded from the scope of the WaterSense Specification for Spray Sprinkler Bodies, Version 1.0 must include an integral pressure regulator and meet the water efficiency, performance criteria, and other requirements specified in the WaterSense Specification for Spray Sprinkler Bodies, Version 1.0;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>urinals must have a maximum flush volume of 0.5 gallons per flush when tested in accordance with 10 C.F.R. § 430, Subpart B, Appendix T, compliance with which must be verified by using the Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Water Consumption of Water Closets and Urinals in effect on January 1, 2020;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>water closets must meet the following standards when tested in accordance with 10 C.F.R. § 430, Subpart B, Appendix T, compliance with which must be verified by using the Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Water Consumption of Water Closets and Urinals in effect on January 1, 2020:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>subject to item B of this item, water closets must have a maximum flush volume of 1.28 gallons per flush; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>dual–flush tank–type water closets must have a maximum dual–flush effective volume of 1.28 gallons per flush; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>water coolers included in the scope of the Energy Star Program’s Water Coolers Specification, Version 2.0 must have an on mode with no water draw energy consumption that is less than or equal to the following values as measured in accordance with the on mode with no water draw test mode specified in the Water Coolers Specification:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <level label="0"> <text>16 kilowatt–hours per day for cold only units and cook and cold units;</text> </level> </level> <level label="B"> <level label="0"> <text>87 kilowatt–hours per day for storage type hot and cold units; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="C"> <level label="0"> <text>18 kilowatt–hours per day for on–demand hot and cold units.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Beginning January 1, 2024, a new product specified in subsection (b)(1)(iii) through (xiii) of this section may not be sold or offered for sale in the State unless the efficiency of the new product meets or exceeds the efficiency standards specified in the regulations adopted under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>This paragraph does not apply to a product that is sold before the regulations adopted under paragraph (1) of this subsection are in effect.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Beginning January 1, 2025, a new product specified in subsection (b)(1)(iii) through (xiii) of this section may not be installed for profit in the State unless the efficiency of the new product meets or exceeds the efficiency standards specified in the regulations adopted under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>By regulation, the Administration may clarify but not expand the scope of the devices defined under subsections (a) and (b) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On request of a Maryland business or consumer and after public notice and comment, the Administration may delay the effective date of any standard under this section by not more than 1 year if the Administration determines that products conforming to the standard will not be widely available in Maryland by the applicable date stated in subsections (c)(2) and (3)(ii) and (d)(2) and (3)(ii) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Administration may limit a delay under paragraph (2) of this subsection to identifiable subcategories of any category of covered products.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration may adopt regulations to increase the efficiency standards for the products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Every 2 years, the Administration shall consider and propose to the General Assembly:</text> <level label="i"> <text>new standards for products not specifically listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>revised, more stringent standards for products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In considering new or amended standards, the Administration shall propose new or amended efficiency standards if it determines that any new or increased efficiency standards would:</text> <level label="i"> <text>serve to promote energy conservation in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be life–cycle cost effective for consumers who purchase and use the new products; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>be technologically feasible and economically justified.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A new or increased efficiency standard may not become effective less than 1 year after the adoption of that standard.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Subject to paragraphs (6) and (7) of this subsection, the Administration may apply for a waiver of federal preemption in accordance with federal procedures (42 U.S.C. § 6297(d)) for State efficiency standards for any product regulated by the federal government.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Administration may apply for a waiver under paragraph (5) of this subsection, if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>at least 90 days before the day on which the application for the waiver is submitted to the federal government, the Administration announces its intention to submit the application by publication in the Maryland Register and writing to the presiding officers of the General Assembly; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>at least 60 days before the day on which the application for the waiver is submitted to the federal government, the Administration, after reasonable notice other than publication in the Maryland Register, shall hold a public hearing on the proposed application to receive public comment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates may direct that the appropriate standing committees of the General Assembly hold hearings on the proposed application for the waiver and provide comments to the Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>After public notice and comment, the Administration shall adopt procedures by rule for testing the energy efficiency of the new products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section if testing procedures are not provided for in the Maryland Building Performance Standards.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration may adopt updated test methods by regulation when new versions of test methods become available or when an alternative test method has been adopted by another state or the federal government.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Administration shall use appropriate nationally recognized test methods such as those approved by the United States Department of Energy.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The manufacturers of new products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section shall cause samples of their products to be tested in accordance with the test procedures adopted under this subsection or those specified in the Maryland Building Performance Standards.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>Manufacturers of new products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section shall certify to the Administration that the products are in compliance with the provisions of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Administration shall adopt regulations governing the certification of new products and may coordinate with the certification programs of other states with similar standards or national voluntary certification programs.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Any manufacturer that has certified a product to another state, the federal Energy Star Program, or the federal WaterSense Program may provide the Administration with a copy of the certification that the manufacturer made to the other state or agency in place of a separate certification to the State of Maryland, provided that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the other state’s standards or the Energy Star or WaterSense specifications are equivalent to or more stringent than the standards of the State of Maryland; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>all information required by the regulations adopted under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph is included in the certification.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration shall adopt regulations governing the identification of such products or packaging which shall be coordinated to the greatest practical extent with the labeling programs and requirements of other states and federal agencies with equivalent efficiency standards.</text> <level label="2"> <text>If a national efficiency standard is established by federal law or regulation for a product listed in subsection (b) of this section, the labeling requirements set forth in COMAR 14.26.03.11 do not apply to that product.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In accordance with COMAR 14.26.03.11, all display models of products shall be displayed with a mark, label, or tag on the product.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration may test products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section using an accredited testing facility.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If products tested are found not to be in compliance with the minimum efficiency standards established under subsections (c) and (d) of this section, the Administration shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>charge the manufacturer of the product for the cost of product purchase and testing; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>make information available to the public on products found not to be in compliance with the standards.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <text>With prior notice and at reasonable and convenient hours, the Administration may make periodic inspections of distributors or retailers of new products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section in order to determine compliance with the provisions of this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration shall coordinate with the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Maryland Department of Labor regarding inspections, prior to occupancy, of newly constructed buildings containing new products that are also covered by the Maryland Building Performance Standards.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration may investigate complaints received concerning violations of this section and shall report the results of an investigation to the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General may institute proceedings to enforce the provisions of this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of new products listed in subsection (b)(1) of this section that violates any provision of this section shall be issued a warning by the Administration for a first violation.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Repeat violators shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $250.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Each violation of this section shall constitute a separate offense and each day that a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Penalties assessed under this subsection are in addition to costs assessed under subsection (j)(2)(i) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>Penalties assessed under this subsection shall be paid into the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2007" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Installed electricity generation capacity” means the maximum direct current power output in watts of the array of photovoltaic modules rated under standard test condition.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Photovoltaic property” means solar energy property with an installed electricity generation capacity of 20 kilowatts or less that uses a solar photovoltaic process to generate electricity and that meets applicable performance and quality standards and certification requirements in effect at the time of acquisition of the property, as specified by the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Program” means the Solar Energy Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <level label="i"> <text>“Solar energy property” means equipment that uses solar energy:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to generate electricity;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to heat or cool a structure or provide hot water for use in a structure; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>to provide solar process heat.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Solar energy property” does not include a swimming pool, hot tub, or any other energy storage medium that has a function other than storage.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Solar water heating property” means solar energy property that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>when installed in connection with a structure, uses solar energy for the purpose of providing hot water for use within the structure; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>meets applicable performance and quality standards and certification requirements in effect at the time of acquisition of the property, as specified by the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Solar Energy Grant Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to provide grants to individuals, local governments, and businesses for a portion of the costs of acquiring and installing photovoltaic property and solar water heating property.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish application procedures for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>award grants from the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A grant awarded under the Program may not exceed:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for photovoltaic property, the lesser of $2,500 per kilowatt of installed electricity generation capacity or $10,000; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for solar water heating property, the lesser of $3,000 or 30% of the total installed cost of the solar water heating property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Subject to the limitations in subsection (e) of this section, the Administration may adjust the grant amounts under the Program to reflect market conditions and the prevailing prices of photovoltaic property and solar water heating property.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2008" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Geothermal heat pump” means a heating and cooling device that is installed using ground loop technology.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Program” means the Geothermal Heat Pump Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Ton” means 1 standard ton of refrigeration equal to 12,000 British thermal units of heat removal per hour.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Geothermal Heat Pump Grant Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to provide grants to individuals for a portion of the cost of acquiring and installing a geothermal heat pump.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish application procedures for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>award grants from the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A grant awarded under the Program may not exceed the lesser of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>$1,000 per ton or $3,000 for a residential system; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>$1,000 per ton or $10,000 for a nonresidential system.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Subject to the limitations in subsection (e) of this section, the Administration may adjust the grant amounts under the Program to reflect market conditions and the prevailing prices of geothermal heat pump systems.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2009" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate” means a rebate issued by the Administration under this section for the cost of qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment” means property in the State that is used for recharging motor vehicles propelled by electricity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>There is an Electric Vehicle Recharging Equipment Rebate Program.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>For fiscal years 2021 through 2026, subject to the provisions of this section, an individual, a business entity, or a unit of State or local government may apply to the Administration for an electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate for the costs of acquiring and installing qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For each fiscal year, the total amount of rebates issued by the Administration may not exceed $2,500,000.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Administration may allow an applicant to include reasonable installation costs in the cost of qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment for the purpose of calculating the amount of an electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Subject to subsection (e) of this section, the Administration may issue an electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an individual in an amount equal to the lesser of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>50% of the costs of acquiring and installing qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>$700; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a business entity or unit of State or local government in an amount equal to the lesser of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>50% of the costs of acquiring and installing qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>$5,000.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, an electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate issued under this section is limited to the acquisition of one recharging system per individual.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration may alter the Program to offer additional benefits for the installation of qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment in multifamily housing, planned urban developments, and condominiums in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>low– to moderate–income communities located in a census tract with an average median income at or below 80% of the average median income for the State; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>overburdened or underserved communities as defined in § 1–701 of the Environment Article.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration may adopt regulations to carry out this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The regulations adopted under this subsection may include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>further limitations on the maximum amount of an electric vehicle recharging equipment rebate that may be claimed by an applicant under subsection (d) of this section;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>additional benefits for the installation of qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment in multifamily housing, planned urban developments, and condominiums located in:</text> <level label="1"> <text>low– to moderate–income communities located in a census tract with an average median income at or below 80% of the average median income for the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>overburdened or underserved communities as defined in § 1–701 of the Environment Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a requirement that an applicant demonstrate compliance with a State, local, or federal law that applies to the installation or operation of the qualified electric vehicle recharging equipment; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any additional application and qualification requirements deemed appropriate by the Administration.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2010" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Hub” means the Climate Transition and Clean Energy Hub.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Climate Transition and Clean Energy Hub in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Hub is to serve as a clearinghouse for information on advanced technology and architectural solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Hub shall provide technical assistance to public and private entities to achieve greenhouse gas emissions reductions and comply with State and local energy efficiency and electrification requirements, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>building emissions standards for covered commercial and multifamily residential buildings established under Title 2, Subtitle 16 of the Environment Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Maryland Building Performance Standards and local amendments to the Standards established under Title 12, Subtitle 5 of the Public Safety Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>high performance building requirements for State–funded buildings established under § 3–602.1 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Hub shall also provide technical assistance for increasing building performance and energy efficiency for other existing and new residential properties.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2011" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Grant” means a medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicle grant issued by the Administration under this section for up to 75% of the incremental cost of a qualified medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicle or zero–emission heavy equipment property.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Incremental cost” means the difference in price of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a conventional model vehicle and a zero–emission model that is attributable to the functional features of the vehicle; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>conventional heavy equipment property and zero–emission heavy equipment property that is attributable to the functional features of the equipment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Program” means the Medium–Duty and Heavy–Duty Zero–Emission Vehicle Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Qualified medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicle” means a motor vehicle that is:</text> <level label="i"> <text>rated at more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>powered by electricity that is stored in a battery or produced by a hydrogen fuel cell.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Qualified medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicle supply equipment” means property in the State that is used for recharging or refueling medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicles or zero–emission heavy equipment property.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <level label="i"> <text>“Zero–emission heavy equipment property” means construction, earthmoving, or industrial heavy equipment, including any attachment for the equipment, that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is mobile; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>does not use an internal combustion engine.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Zero–emission heavy equipment property” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a self–propelled vehicle that is not designed to be driven on a highway; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>industrial electrical generation equipment, industrial lift equipment, industrial material handling equipment, or other similar industrial equipment.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Medium–Duty and Heavy–Duty Zero–Emission Vehicle Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Program applies only to vehicles and equipment intended for commercial or industrial use.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>For each of fiscal years 2024 through 2027, a person or a unit of local government may apply to the Administration for a grant under the Program.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For the purpose of calculating the amount of a grant, the Administration may allow an applicant to include reasonable installation costs in the cost of qualified medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicle supply equipment.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In issuing Program grants, the Administration shall give preference to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>qualified medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicles that are:</text> <level label="1"> <text>expected to be primarily domiciled and operated in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to be owned or operated by an entity engaged in business activity that impacts public health, the environment, or infrastructure in an overburdened or underserved community, as defined in § 1–701 of the Environment Article; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>zero–emission heavy equipment property that is expected to be used primarily at locations in the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Program grants are subject to available funding and § 9–20B–05(j)(4) of this title.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Notwithstanding § 9–20B–05(g) of this title, in each of fiscal years 2024 through 2027, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $10,000,000 from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund for grants for qualified newly manufactured medium–duty or heavy–duty zero–emission vehicles or zero–emission heavy equipment property under the Program.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2012" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Eligible applicant” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the owner of a residential property who purchases and installs an energy storage system on the residential property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the owner of a commercial property who purchases and installs an energy storage system on the commercial property; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an individual or a business entity that owns or pays for the installation of an energy storage system that supplies electrical energy intended for use on the residential or commercial property on which the energy storage system is installed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Energy storage system” means a system used to store electrical energy, or mechanical, chemical, or thermal energy that was once electrical energy, for use as electrical energy at a later date or in a process that offsets electricity use at peak times.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Fund” means the Energy Storage System Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Program” means the Energy Storage System Grant Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is an Energy Storage System Grant Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to provide grants to individuals and business entities for a portion of the costs of purchasing and installing energy storage systems.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish application procedures for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>award grants under the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection and to the availability of money in the Fund, an eligible applicant may apply for a grant under the Program for costs incurred to purchase and install an energy storage system.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration may require that an applicant participate in a program or tariff established under § 7–1005 of the Public Utilities Article as a condition of eligibility for receiving a grant under the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a grant awarded under the Program may not exceed the lesser of:</text> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>for an energy storage system installed on a residential property, $5,000; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for an energy storage system installed on a commercial property, $150,000; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>30% of the total installed costs of the energy storage system.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The award limits in paragraph (1) of this subsection do not apply to a grant provided to an applicant as an upfront incentive or rebate under § 7–1006 of the Public Utilities Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Administration shall approve all applications that qualify for a grant under the Program:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on a first–come, first–served basis; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>in a timely manner.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>A grant under this section may not be awarded for an energy storage system installed before January 1, 2025.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>There is an Energy Storage System Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Fund may be used only for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>providing grants under the Program to eligible applicants; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>administrative costs of the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>The Administration may adopt regulations to carry out this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2013" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL JUNE 30, 2027 PER CHAPTER 577 OF 2022" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Fund” means the Mechanical Insulation Installation Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Mechanical insulation” means insulation materials, facings, and accessory products used for thermal requirements for mechanical piping and equipment, hot and cold applications, and heating, ventilation, and air–conditioning applications.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Minimum ASHRAE standard” means the minimum American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air–Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standard 90.1–2019 (Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low–Rise Residential Buildings).</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Program” means the Mechanical Insulation Installation Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>“Qualified expenses” means a capital investment of at least $10,000 for the installation of mechanical insulation, in a manner that complies with the minimum ASHRAE standard in effect at the time of the investment, on a commercial or industrial property in the State.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Qualified expenses” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>amounts paid for the purchase of mechanical insulation installed on the property; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>labor costs paid for the preparation, assembly, and installation of mechanical insulation on the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Qualified expenses” does not include capital investments for the installation of mechanical insulation that are required by statute, regulation, or code.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Mechanical Insulation Installation Grant Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to provide grants to individuals, nonprofit organizations, and business entities for a portion of the qualified expenses paid or incurred to install mechanical insulation on a commercial or industrial property.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish application procedures for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>award grants from the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Subject to the availability of money in the Fund, an individual, a nonprofit organization, or a business entity may apply for a grant under the Program for qualified expenses paid or incurred to install mechanical insulation on a commercial or industrial property.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A grant awarded under the Program may not exceed the lesser of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>30% of the total amount of qualified expenses paid or incurred by the applicant; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>$20,000.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Mechanical Insulation Installation Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Fund may be used only for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>providing grants under the Program to eligible applicants; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>administrative costs of the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <level label="i"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Administration shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2014" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Extended grid outage” means a planned or unplanned grid outage lasting more than 4 hours.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Low–income” means a household with an annual adjusted gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty level.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Microgrid” means technology that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>combines clean, distributed power generation with advanced control equipment; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>enables portions of the electric grid to remain online when the wider grid is down.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Moderate–income” means a household with an annual adjusted gross income at or below 80% of the local median income, as determined by the latest Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development “Income Limits” document.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Program” means the Resiliency Hub Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>“Resiliency hub” means a location where solar photovoltaic and battery energy storage are designed to provide electricity to meet community needs during extended grid outages, including providing:</text> <level label="i"> <text>emergency heating and cooling;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>refrigeration of temperature–sensitive medications;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>outlets or other plug power options for charging cell phone and computer batteries; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>ventilation and emergency lighting.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Resiliency Hub Grant Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to develop resiliency hubs that serve low–income and moderate–income households at no cost to the households.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>By regulation, the Administration shall set the terms and conditions for the issuance of grants under the Program consistent with this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The regulations shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a competitive application process for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>criteria and procedures for awarding grants to eligible recipients that give priority to awarding grants to projects for microgrids that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>use a community solar energy generating system, as defined in § 7–306.2 of the Public Utilities Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide more than 30% of the system’s kilowatt output to low–income and moderate–income subscribers.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The following persons are eligible for a grant under the Program:</text> <level label="1"> <text>businesses;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>nonprofit entities;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>units of State government; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>local governments.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A project is eligible for a grant under the Program if the project:</text> <level label="1"> <text>proposes to develop a resiliency hub;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>will operate the resiliency hub for a period of at least 5 years; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>will serve a community of majority low–income or moderate–income households.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>coordinate administration of the Program with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide to grant applicants information on other sources of assistance that may benefit the project, including loans and grants awarded under § 9–20B–05(i)(3) of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>A person who receives a grant under the Program shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>acquire a written attestation that all installation contractors and subcontractors working on the project:</text> <level label="i"> <text>pay at least 150% of the State minimum wage;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>afford employees the right to bargain collectively for wages and benefits;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>provide paid leave;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>are considered “covered employment” for purposes of unemployment insurance benefits in accordance with Title 8 of the Labor and Employment Article;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>entitle the employees to workers’ compensation benefits in accordance with Title 9 of the Labor and Employment Article;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>have been in compliance with federal and State wage and hour laws for the longer of the immediately preceding 3 years or for the duration of the contractor’s or subcontractor’s business operation; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>offer employer–provided health insurance benefits with monthly premiums that do not exceed 8.5% of the employee’s net monthly earnings; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide to the Administration a progress report on or before January 10, April 10, July 10, and October 10 each year.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2015" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Fund” means the Resiliency Hub Grant Program Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Program” means the Resiliency Hub Grant Program established under § 9–2010 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Resiliency Hub Grant Program Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to provide grants under the Program.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>grant funding obtained under subsection (k) of this section;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>funds distributed to the Fund under § 9–20B–05 of this title and §§ 2–110.1 and 13–201 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>interest earnings; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund may be used only for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>grants awarded under the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>costs associated with administering the Program and the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>Money expended from the Fund for the Program is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the Program.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <text>The Administration and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, in coordination with any other appropriate unit of State government, shall identify and apply for grant funding, including federal grant funding, to support the Program.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2016" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL JUNE 30, 2027 PER CHAPTER 595 OF 2024" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Eligible customer–generator” has the meaning stated in § 7–306 of the Public Utilities Article.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Low to moderate income” means a household with an annual household income at or below 150% of the average median income for the State.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Program” means the Customer–Sited Solar Program established in this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Customer–Sited Solar Program in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>increase deployment of customer–sited solar energy generating systems; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide grants to eligible customer–generators that have installed solar energy generating systems with or without energy storage.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>on or before January 1, 2025, establish application and income verification procedures for the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>award grants from the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An applicant for a grant under this section shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>include in the application an executed contract to purchase or lease a solar energy generating system or an executed power purchase agreement for the system;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>demonstrate that an agreement entered into between a third party and an eligible customer–generator meets the minimum benefits published under subsection (j) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>include a signed disclosure form developed under subsection (l) of this section.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Program may provide grants to an income–verified eligible customer–generator with a low to moderate income in an amount equal to $750 per kilowatt of nameplate capacity for a solar energy generating system, up to a maximum of $7,500 per system.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A grant awarded under subsection (e) of this section shall be funded from the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund established under § 9–20B–05 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Administration shall use the income verification processes under § 7–306.2(f)(1)(iv)1 through 6 of the Public Utilities Article to verify income for an eligible customer–generator with a low to moderate income.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>A third party may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>apply for a grant on behalf of an eligible customer–generator with proof of consent from the eligible customer–generator; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>be assigned a grant by the eligible customer–generator to act on behalf of the eligible customer–generator.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Funding used for grants under this section shall be monitored through an application process maintained by the Administration and visible on the Administration’s website.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Data on the Administration’s website shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>include the amount of funding available, reserved, and spent for the fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be updated regularly.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>The Administration shall publish:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the disclosure form developed under subsection (l) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the minimum benefits that an eligible customer–generator must receive under an agreement with a third party.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <text>A solar energy generating system shall be installed within 180 days after a grant under this section is reserved by the Administration for an eligible customer–generator.</text> </level> <level label="l"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration shall develop a consumer protection policy in consultation with representatives of the customer–sited solar industry.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The consumer protection policy developed under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>include a disclosure form for solar energy power purchase agreements, solar energy lease agreements, and solar energy loan agreements that must be signed by an eligible customer–generator before entering into the agreement;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for a solar energy power purchase agreement or a solar energy lease agreement, prohibit an annual rate increase of more than 3%;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>allow a customer–generator to cancel an agreement entered into with a third party up to 30 days after signing the agreement; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>be easily accessible on the Administration’s website and social media platforms.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2017" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20" subtitle_name="Maryland Energy Administration"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before December 1, 2025, to assist the State in meeting its solar energy commitments under Title 7, Subtitle 7 of the Public Utilities Article, the Department of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Maryland Energy Administration, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Planning, shall update the publicly available SmartDG+ tool to include State–owned land suitable for solar energy development.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On or before December 1, 2026, the Department of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Maryland Energy Administration, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Planning, shall analyze land owned by the State to identify land suitable for solar energy development to assist the State in meeting its solar energy commitments under Title 7, Subtitle 7 of the Public Utilities Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administration” means the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Board” means the Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board established under § 9–20B–07 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Clean energy industry” means a group of employers and building and trade associations that are associated by their promotion of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>products and services that improve energy efficiency and conservation, including products and services provided by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>electricians;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>heating, ventilation, and air–conditioning installers;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>plumbers;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>energy auditors;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>carpenters;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>pile–driver operators;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>millwrights;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>insulation workers; and</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>well drillers; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>renewable and clean energy resources.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Fund” means the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Program” means the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <text>There is a Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program in the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <text>The purpose of the Program is to decrease energy demand and increase energy supply to promote affordable, reliable, and clean energy and to strengthen the State’s climate mitigation and climate resiliency to fuel Maryland’s future prosperity.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <text>The Administration shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>manage, supervise, and administer the Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>adopt regulations to implement the Program and to ensure that Fund resources are utilized only to carry out the purposes of the Program;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>attach specific terms and conditions to any grant, loan, or other form of assistance that are determined by the Administration as necessary to ensure that the purposes of the Program are fulfilled;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>develop procedures for monitoring programs, projects, activities, and investments to verify that Fund resources are being used to meet the purposes of the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>provide money annually or as needed to the Clean Air Fund managed by the Department of the Environment to fund the costs of the Department’s programs to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-05" future_version_removed="true" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “district energy” has the meaning stated in § 7–232 of the Public Utilities Article.</text> </level> <level label="a–1"> <text>There is a Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to implement the Strategic Energy Investment Program.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Administration shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>all of the proceeds from the sale of allowances under § 2–1002(g) of the Environment Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Program;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>repayments and prepayments of principal and interest on loans made from the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>compliance fees paid under § 7–705 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>money received from any public or private source for the benefit of the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>money transferred from the Public Service Commission under § 7–207.2(d)(3) of the Public Utilities Article; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>money distributed under § 2–614.1 of the Tax – General Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Administration shall use the Fund:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to invest in the promotion, development, and implementation of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>cost–effective energy efficiency and conservation programs, projects, or activities, including measurement and verification of energy savings;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>renewable and clean energy resources;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>climate change programs directly related to reducing or mitigating the effects of climate change; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>demand response programs that are designed to promote changes in electric usage by customers in response to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>changes in the price of electricity over time; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>incentives designed to induce lower electricity use at times of high wholesale market prices or when system reliability is jeopardized;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to provide targeted programs, projects, activities, and investments to reduce electricity consumption by customers in the low–income and moderate–income residential sectors;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>to provide supplemental funds for low–income energy assistance through electric and fuel assistance programs in the Department of Human Services;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>to provide rate relief by offsetting electricity rates of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>residential customers, including an offset of surcharges imposed on ratepayers under Title 7, Subtitle 2, Part II of the Public Utilities Article; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>to the extent feasible, residents of apartment houses, as defined in § 7–303 of the Public Utilities Article, for which electricity service is provided through:</text> <level label="1"> <text>submetering authorized under § 7–303 of the Public Utilities Article; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an energy allocation system as defined in § 7–304 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>to provide grants, loans, and other assistance and investment as necessary and appropriate to implement the purposes of the Program as set forth in § 9–20B–03 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>to implement energy–related public education and outreach initiatives regarding reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>to provide rebates under the Electric Vehicle Recharging Equipment Rebate Program established under § 9–2009 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>to provide grants to encourage combined heat and power projects at industrial facilities;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>to provide at least $1,200,000 in each fiscal year for fiscal year 2025 through fiscal year 2028 to the Climate Technology Founder’s Fund established under § 10–858 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>subject to subsection (f–2) of this section, to provide at least $2,100,000 in funding each fiscal year to the Maryland Energy Innovation Fund established under § 10–835 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>to provide at least $500,000 each year to the Resiliency Hub Grant Program Fund under § 9–2011 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>to provide grants through the Customer–Sited Solar Program under § 9–2016 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>notwithstanding subsection (g) of this section, to pay costs associated with:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Air and Radiation Administration within the Department of the Environment;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Power Plant Research Program within the Department of Natural Resources, including to support review of applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity associated with power plant construction as required under § 3–306 of the Natural Resources Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Environmental Review Program within the Department of Natural Resources, including to support the review of natural resource impacts of proposed development projects on State and private lands;</text> </level> </level> <level label="14"> <text>to provide funds to the Green and Renewable Energy Efficiency for Nonprofits Loan Fund established under § 10–868 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>to provide loans and grants for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>building electrification, including connection to an electrified district energy system;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>electrified thermal energy generation assets interconnected with a district energy system; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>transportation electrification;</text> </level> </level> <level label="16"> <text>to provide loans and grants for programs, projects, and technologies that assist covered buildings, as defined in § 2–1601 of the Environment Article, in meeting the building energy performance standards established under § 2–1602 of the Environment Article;</text> </level> <level label="17"> <text>to provide grants for renewable energy projects under § 9–20E–02 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="18"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide grants to electric companies, including electric cooperatives and municipal electric utilities, to pay down the costs incurred by the electric companies for implementing and administering programs and services under Title 7, Subtitle 2, Part II of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="19"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to offset residential electric customer costs associated with the limited–income rate mechanism required under § 4–309 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="20"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide funding for a comprehensive study of public school HVAC systems in Baltimore City;</text> </level> <level label="21"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide funding for upgrades to public school HVAC systems in Baltimore City;</text> </level> <level label="22"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide additional funding for the Administration’s Residential and Commercial Energy Storage Grant Program;</text> </level> <level label="23"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide additional funding for the review of renewable and clean energy projects through the Department of Natural Resources’ Power Plant Research Program;</text> </level> <level label="24"> <text>in fiscal year 2027, to provide additional funding for heat pump installations and replacements for low– and moderate–income households through the Administration’s Residential Energy Equity Program;</text> </level> <level label="25"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2028, to provide $5,000,000 in each fiscal year to the Department of Natural Resources’ Power Plant Research Program;</text> </level> <level label="26"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2028, $9,000,000 to provide grants or rebates to incentivize customers to install renewable on–site generating systems under § 7–1006 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="27"> <text>to provide funding for clean energy and efficiency programs for buildings, including low–income household energy efficiency and school electrification;</text> </level> <level label="28"> <text>to provide funding for transportation–related emissions reduction programs, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure and electric school bus deployment;</text> </level> <level label="29"> <text>to provide funding for electric system resiliency programs, including microgrid installation and resiliency hubs;</text> </level> <level label="30"> <text>for administrative expenses of the Maryland Clean Energy Center; and</text> </level> <level label="31"> <text>to pay the expenses of the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f–1"> <level label="1"> <text>Any funding provided under subsection (f)(9) of this section that is not spent in a given fiscal year shall revert to the Fund in the following fiscal year.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration may provide additional funding for the purposes stated in subsection (f)(9) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f–2"> <text>Of the funds transferred to the Maryland Energy Innovation Fund under subsection (f)(10) of this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>at least $1,200,000 may be used to fund the Maryland Clean Energy Center established under § 10–806 of the Economic Development Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>at least $900,000 may be used to fund the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute established under § 10–829 of the Economic Development Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>Proceeds received by the Fund from the sale of allowances under § 2–1002(g) of the Environment Article shall be allocated as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>at least 50% shall be credited to an energy assistance account to be used for electricity and fuel assistance programs in the Department of Human Services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>at least 20% shall be credited to a low and moderate income efficiency and conservation programs account and to a general efficiency and conservation programs account for energy efficiency and conservation programs, projects, or activities and demand response programs, of which at least one–half shall be targeted to the low and moderate income efficiency and conservation programs account for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the low–income residential sector at no cost to the participants of the programs, projects, or activities; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the moderate–income residential sector;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>at least 20% shall be credited to a renewable and clean energy programs account for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>renewable and clean energy programs and initiatives;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>energy–related public education and outreach;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>climate change and resiliency programs;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>programs and applicable initiatives related to State climate change mitigation and climate change resiliency efforts; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>notwithstanding § 9–20B–03 of this subtitle, programs and applicable initiatives related to resiliency efforts defined and implemented by the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, including the annual report by the Office of Resilience required under § 14–1203 of the Public Safety Article; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>up to 10%, but not more than $7,500,000, shall be credited to an administrative expense account for costs related to the administration of the Fund, including the review of electric company plans for achieving electricity savings and demand reductions that the electric companies are required under law to submit to the Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g–1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (i–2) of this section, proceeds received by the Fund from compliance fees under § 7–705(b)(2)(i)2 of the Public Utilities Article shall be allocated as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>beginning in fiscal year 2025, at least 20% of the proceeds shall be used to provide grants to support the installation of new solar energy generating systems under the Customer–Sited Solar Program;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>up to 10% of the proceeds shall be credited to an administrative expense account for costs related to the administration of the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>proceeds collected but unused from a previous year shall be used before proceeds allocated for the current year; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Administration shall reallocate to other authorized uses any proceeds that are not used within 3 fiscal years after collection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>Energy efficiency and conservation programs under subsection (g)(2) of this section include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>low–income energy efficiency programs;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>residential and small business energy efficiency programs;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>commercial and industrial energy efficiency programs;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>State and local energy efficiency programs;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>demand response programs;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>loan programs and alternative financing mechanisms; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>grants to training funds and other organizations supporting job training for deployment of energy efficiency and energy conservation technology and equipment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Energy–related public education and outreach and renewable and clean energy programs and initiatives under subsection (g)(3)(i) and (ii) of this section include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>production incentives for specified renewable energy sources;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>expansion of existing grant programs for solar, geothermal, and wind programs;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>loan programs and alternative financing mechanisms; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>consumer education and outreach programs that are designed to reach low–income communities.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraphs (2) through (6) of this subsection and subsection (i–2) of this section, compliance fees paid under § 7–705(b) of the Public Utilities Article may be used only to make loans and grants to support the creation of new Tier 1 renewable energy sources in the State that are owned by or directly benefit:</text> <level label="i"> <text>low– to moderate–income communities located in a census tract with an average median income at or below 80% of the average median income for the State; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>overburdened or underserved communities, as defined in § 1–701 of the Environment Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (i–2) of this section, compliance fees paid under § 7–705(b)(2)(i)2 of the Public Utilities Article shall be accounted for separately within the Fund and may be used only to make loans and grants to support the creation of new solar energy sources in the State that are owned by or directly benefit:</text> <level label="i"> <text>low– to moderate–income communities located in a census tract with an average median income at or below 80% of the average median income for the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>overburdened or underserved communities, as defined in § 1–701 of the Environment Article; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>households with low to moderate income, as defined in § 9–2016 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>For fiscal year 2026 only, up to $100,000,000 of compliance fees paid under §§ 7–705(b) and 7–705(b)(2)(i)2 of the Public Utilities Article shall be accounted for separately within the Fund and may be used for solar development on State government property and local government clean energy projects.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraphs (ii), (iii), and (iv) of this paragraph, compliance fees paid under § 7–705 of the Public Utilities Article may be used to provide grants to electric companies to be refunded or credited to each residential distribution customer based on the customer’s consumption of electricity supply that is subject to the renewable energy portfolio standard.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The refunding or crediting of amounts to residential distribution customers shall be identified on the customer’s bill as a line item identified as a “legislative energy relief refund”.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>An electric company awarded a grant under this paragraph:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not retain any of the grant funds to cover overhead expenses; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall provide all of the grant funds to residential distribution customers.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>The process under subparagraphs (i) and (ii) of this paragraph related to the refunding or crediting of amounts to residential distribution customers shall be directed and overseen by the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>For fiscal year 2027 only, compliance fees paid under §§ 7–705(b) and 7–705(b)(2)(i)2 of the Public Utilities Article shall be made available for $42,000,000 to the Dedicated Purpose Account to be made available for higher education research grants in any research field and not limited to energy–related research.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>For fiscal years 2027 through 2031, compliance fees paid under § 7–705 of the Public Utilities Article and deposited into the Fund may be used for grants or loans to support the creation of new Tier 1 renewable energy sources in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i–1"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Area median income” has the meaning stated in § 4–1801 of the Housing and Community Development Article.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Low and moderate income” means having an annual household income that is at or below 120% of the area median income.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (i–2) of this section, compliance fees paid under § 7–705(b–1) of the Public Utilities Article shall be accounted for separately within the Fund and may be used only to make loans and grants to promote increased opportunities for the growth and development of small, minority, women–owned, and veteran–owned businesses in the State that install geothermal systems in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i–2"> <text>For fiscal years 2027 and 2028, $100,000,000 of compliance fees paid under § 7–705 of the Public Utilities Article and deposited into the Fund in each fiscal year may be used to provide grants for renewable energy projects under § 9–20E–02 of this title, including any associated administrative expenses.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>The Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any investment earnings of the Fund shall be paid into the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Any repayment of principal and interest on loans made from the Fund shall be paid into the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Balances in the Fund shall be held for the benefit of the Program, shall be expended solely for the purposes of the Program, and may not be used for the general obligations of government.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund shall be made by:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an appropriation in the annual State budget; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a budget amendment in accordance with § 7–209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>An expenditure by budget amendment may be made under subsection (k) of this section only after:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Administration has submitted the proposed budget amendment and supporting documentation to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee, Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment, House Appropriations Committee, and House Environment and Transportation Committee; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the committees have had 45 days for review and comment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="m"> <level label="1"> <text>A loan or grant made available from the Fund to a unit of State or local government shall comply with §§ 14–416 and 17–303 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At least 80% of workers participating in a project or program that receives money from the Fund must reside within 50 miles of the project or program, or another distance defined by the local jurisdiction where the project or program is located.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-06" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before December 31, 2019, the Administration shall develop a plan for expenditures for fiscal year 2020 and a plan for expenditures covering the next 3 fiscal years.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration shall hold one or more public meetings in conjunction with the development of a plan.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall hold at least four public meetings across the State during the development of the initial plan under subsection (a) of this section, in the eastern, southern, central, and western parts of the State, respectively; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is encouraged to solicit input from all regions of the State in developing subsequent plans under this section.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-07" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall review the Program and the Administration’s proposed uses of and expenditures from the Fund and make recommendations to the Administration concerning any proposed use or expenditure.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration shall consider the Board’s recommendations when making decisions about uses and expenditures from the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one member of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the following members appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>two representatives of Maryland residential customers;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a representative of Maryland commercial customers;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a representative of large electricity users in the State;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a representative of an electric company;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a representative of an electric cooperative;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>a representative of electricity suppliers;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>a representative of a Maryland environmental group; and</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>a representative of a renewable electricity industry; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the following nonvoting ex officio members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Chairman of the Public Service Commission or the Chairman’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the People’s Counsel or the designee of the People’s Counsel; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Secretary of the Environment or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If a regulated lobbyist is appointed to serve as a member of the Board, the lobbyist:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is not subject to § 5–504(d) of the General Provisions Article with respect to that service; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is not subject to § 5–704(f)(3) of the General Provisions Article as a result of that service.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the chair of the Board from among its voting members.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member appointed by the Governor is 3 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the members appointed by the Governor are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on June 1, 2008.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Board shall meet at least 2 times each year.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In addition, the Board may meet at the discretion of the chair of the Board or the request of the Director of the Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Board may act only by the affirmative vote of at least six voting members.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A member of the Board:</text> <level label="i"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Board; but</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Administration shall provide staff support for the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-08" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>The Administration regularly shall disclose summary information regarding any contract entered into by the Administration that encumbers $100,000 or more from the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>For each of the contracts specified under subsection (a) of this section, the following information shall be posted on the Administration’s website on a quarterly basis:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the name and business address of the parties of the contract;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a summary of the goods and services to be provided under the contract; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the maximum amount of money from the Fund that may be obligated by the contract.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-09" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>The Administration shall monitor and analyze the impact of each program, project, activity, and investment to ensure that the outcome of each program, project, activity, or investment achieves the purposes of the Program.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In monitoring and analyzing the impact of a program, project, activity, or investment under subsection (a) of this section, if the Administration finds that the outcome of the program, project, activity, or investment is not achieving the purposes of the Program, the Administration shall take specific measures to address the findings.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-10" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <text>The Administration may enter into contracts with third parties to assist in the development and implementation of programs and projects that will advance the purposes of the Program or to administer the Program, including contracts with third parties to make, service, or settle loans and other assistance or investments made through the Program.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-11" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>A person may not knowingly make or cause to be made any false statement or report in any document required to be furnished to the Administration by any agreement relating to a grant, loan, or other financial assistance.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A person applying for a grant, loan, or other financial assistance through the Program may not knowingly make or cause to be made any false statements for the purpose of influencing any action of the Administration on an application or for the purpose of influencing any action of the Administration affecting any grant, loan, or other financial assistance already provided.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20B-12" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20B" subtitle_name="Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before January 1 each year, the Administration shall report to the Governor, to the Board, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly and the members of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Economic Matters Committee on the uses and expenditures of the Fund from the prior fiscal year.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The report shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a detailed accounting of all amounts in excess of $10,000 received by and disbursed from the Fund, including the amount and recipient of each grant awarded by the Administration;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>all amounts used by the Administration for administrative purposes, including the funding source from which each amount was obtained;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>programs, projects, and activities included in each category under § 9–20B–05(g) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the status of programs, projects, activities, and investments implemented with funds from the Fund, including an evaluation of the impact of the programs, projects, activities, and investments that are directed to low–income or moderate–income residential sectors or to other particular classes of ratepayers;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>an estimate of greenhouse gas emissions reductions from the programs, projects, activities, and investments;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the number of allowances sold in each auction;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the average allowance price from each auction;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>an estimate of revenue from future auctions;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>an accounting of all amounts received or disbursed by the Fund from all other sources, including money received in accordance with orders issued and settlement agreements approved by the Public Service Commission;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>recommendations for changes to the allocation of funds under § 9–20B–05(g) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the status of programs and expenditures in the current fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>possible or expected program initiatives and changes in later years.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20C-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20C" subtitle_name="Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administration” means the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Advisory Committee” means the Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Advisory Committee established under § 9–20C–02 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Director” means the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Emerging business” means a business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by an individual or individuals who are certified to have a personal net worth, as defined in § 14–301 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, that does not exceed $6,500,000 as adjusted each year for inflation according to the Consumer Price Index.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Fund” means the Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund established under § 9–20C–03 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Minority” means an individual who is a member of any of the groups listed in § 14–301(k)(1)(i) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20C-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20C" subtitle_name="Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Advisory Committee.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Advisory Committee shall make recommendations to the Administration on the most effective manner to use money in the Fund consistent with the purposes of the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Advisory Committee consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>two members of the Senate of Maryland, one from each of the principal political parties, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>two members of the House of Delegates, one from each of the principal political parties, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Director or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Special Secretary of the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, or the Special Secretary’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the following 12 members, appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>1 representative of a public institution of higher education in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>1 representative of a historically black or African American university in the State;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>1 representative of the State’s community colleges;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>1 representative of the Maryland Independent Colleges and Universities Association;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>1 representative of the Maryland Small Business Development Center Network;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>1 representative of the Maryland Business Coalition for Offshore Wind;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>1 representative of a business incubator in the State with experience in providing services to minority business enterprises as defined in § 14–301 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, or to emerging businesses, including emerging businesses owned by minorities;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>1 individual with experience in providing business financing to minority business enterprises as defined in § 14–301 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, or to emerging businesses, including emerging businesses owned by minorities;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>1 representative of an offshore wind developer;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>1 representative of an original equipment manufacturer;</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>1 individual who is a minority business advocate; and</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>1 individual with experience in offshore wind supply chain issues.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the chair of the Advisory Committee.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Administration shall provide staff for the Advisory Committee.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A member of the Advisory Committee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Advisory Committee; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before December 31, 2013, the Advisory Committee shall provide written recommendations to the Administration regarding the most effective use of money in the Fund in order to maximize opportunities for emerging businesses in the State, including minority–owned emerging businesses, to participate in the offshore wind industry.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In making a recommendation under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Advisory Committee shall consider opportunities to maximize leveraging opportunities, mentoring and protege models, innovation clusters, existing incubator and business development programs, and the appropriate role of partnerships with the State’s universities and community colleges.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>On or before December 31, 2014, the Advisory Committee shall provide updated recommendations to the Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>On completion and submission of the written recommendations required under subsection (g) of this section, the Advisory Committee shall terminate its operation and cease to meet.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20C-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20C" subtitle_name="Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund in the Administration.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purposes of the Fund are to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide financial assistance, business development assistance, and employee training opportunities for the benefit of emerging businesses in the State, including minority–owned emerging businesses, to prepare those businesses to participate in the emerging offshore wind industry; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>encourage emerging businesses in the State, including minority–owned emerging businesses, to participate in the emerging offshore wind industry.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Administration may use the Fund to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>carry out the purposes of the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>pay the costs of implementing this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Director shall manage and supervise the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to reversion under § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any investment earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>money appropriated by the State to the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>money paid to the Fund by a qualified offshore wind project under § 7–704.1(h) of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>money made available to the Fund through federal programs or private contributions;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>repayment of principal or payment of interest on a loan made from the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>proceeds from the sale, disposition, lease, or rental by the Administration of collateral related to financing that the Administration provides under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>investment earnings of the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>any other money made available to the Administration for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>In fiscal years 2014 and 2015, $1,500,000 shall be transferred from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund to the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In fiscal year 2016, $1,000,000 shall be transferred from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20C-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20C" subtitle_name="Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund"> <level label="a"> <text>When determining how most effectively to use the money in the Fund, the Administration shall consider the recommendations of the Advisory Committee.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In carrying out this subtitle, and consistent with the purposes of the Fund, the Administration may contract with:</text> <level label="1"> <text>experts in the area of offshore wind energy;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Small Business Development Center Network in the University of Maryland; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>entities experienced in assisting emerging businesses, including minority–owned emerging businesses, in accessing market opportunities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, Division II of the State Finance and Procurement Article does not apply to a service that the Administration obtains under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration is subject to Title 12, Subtitle 4 of the State Finance and Procurement Article for services under this section.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administration” means the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Program” means the Regulated Sustainable Energy Contract Program.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Qualified contractor” means a person authorized by the Administration under this subtitle to provide sustainable energy products to residential property owners under a regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Regulated sustainable energy contract” means a contract between a residential property owner and a qualified contractor that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meets the requirements of § 9–20D–04 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>does not exceed $30,000.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Residential energy efficiency measure” means a product or an improvement to a structure that, when installed, results in a reduction of energy usage in that structure.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Residential renewable energy installation” means a product that, when installed on residential property, provides energy savings or generates energy from a renewable source.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <text>This subtitle is intended to promote energy conservation and the use of renewable energy by providing a secure form of long–term financing to facilitate the implementation of residential renewable energy installations and residential energy efficiency measures on or in residential properties.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-03" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <level label="a"> <text>The Administration may create a Regulated Sustainable Energy Contract Program to authorize qualified contractors to provide residential renewable energy installations and residential energy efficiency measures to residential property owners under regulated sustainable energy contracts in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Administration shall manage, supervise, and administer a Program created under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If the Administration creates a Program under this subtitle, the Administration shall adopt regulations that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>ensure that financing is provided only to a project that carries out the purposes stated in a regulated sustainable energy contract;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish eligibility criteria for qualified contractors, including a required minimum level of capitalization;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>establish eligibility requirements for property owners that give due regard to the owner’s ability to pay in a manner substantially similar to the requirements for a mortgage loan under §§ 12–127, 12–311, 12–409.1, 12–925, and 12–1029 of the Commercial Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>define and place limits on eligible residential renewable energy installations and eligible residential energy efficiency measures;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>establish cost–effectiveness requirements for eligible residential renewable energy installations and eligible residential energy efficiency measures;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>establish payback requirements, rate–of–return and interest rate guidelines, and limits for regulated sustainable energy contracts;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>establish mechanisms for independent quality control and quality assurance;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>market the Program to property owners and potential qualified contractors; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>provide a process for adopting brand names for the Program as well as elements of the Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Administration may enter into contracts with third parties to ensure that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>financing is provided only to projects that carry out the terms and conditions of regulated sustainable energy contracts; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the purposes of the Program are fulfilled.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Administration may collect reasonable fees from qualified contractors to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>ensure that the purposes of the Program are fulfilled; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>carry out the Administration’s duties under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Administration may authorize qualified contractors to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>enter into regulated sustainable energy contracts with individual residential property owners, groups of residential property owners, or the builder of a new residential structure;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>directly bill, in accordance with the rate and payment schedules provided in the regulated sustainable energy contract, each property owner that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is a party to a regulated sustainable energy contract; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>owns property subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>enforce payment under a regulated sustainable energy contract in accordance with § 9–20D–08 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Administration may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>limit the authorization of a qualified contractor to a particular territory or specified residential renewable energy installation; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>authorize more than one qualified contractor to operate in a particular territory or to offer specified residential renewable energy installation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Administration:</text> <level label="1"> <text>before developing and implementing a Program, shall perform a study to assess:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the feasibility of the Program; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Administration’s abilities to fulfill its duties regarding the Program under this subtitle;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may develop and implement a test or pilot program; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>notwithstanding the provisions in this subtitle, shall ensure that any financing authorized under this subtitle shall comply with applicable provisions in Title 12, Subtitles 1, 3, 4, 6, 9, and 10 of the Commercial Law Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-04" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <level label="a"> <text>Under a Program created in accordance with § 9–20D–03(a) of this subtitle, a regulated sustainable energy contract shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meet the requirements established by the Administration under subsection (d) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>require, for each property expected to be subject to the regulated sustainable energy contract, the qualified contractor to notify, by first–class certified mail, any party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on property of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the expected existence and terms of the regulated sustainable energy contract; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the right of the party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust to object to the contract as provided in subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on property that would be subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract has 30 days from receipt of the notice required under subsection (a)(2) of this section to object to the contract.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any objection to the contract on the part of a party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on the property must be in writing and addressed to the owner of the property and the qualified contractor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If an objection is made under subsection (b) of this section by a party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on the property, the regulated sustainable energy contract may not become effective and if executed shall be void.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>When creating a Program under this subtitle, the Administration shall, by order or regulation, establish specific requirements for a regulated sustainable energy contract under this subtitle, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>terms and conditions, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>interest rates, schedules, and rates for repayment;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a requirement that, if there is no objection by a party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust, the regulated sustainable energy contract be recorded in the land records of the county in which the property is located;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>time frames for the recordation; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any terms and conditions required to create and enforce a lien under the Maryland Contract Lien Act, Title 14, Subtitle 2 of the Real Property Article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>eligibility requirements for property owners that give due regard to the owner’s ability to pay in a manner substantially similar to the requirements for a mortgage loan under §§ 12–127, 12–311, 12–409.1, 12–925, and 12–1029 of the Commercial Law Article; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>mechanisms:</text> <level label="i"> <text>for quality control; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>to ensure that the savings to the property owner under a regulated sustainable energy contract outweigh the cost of the regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-05" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <text>A qualified contractor may not enter into a regulated sustainable energy contract unless, for each property that would be subject to the regulated sustainable energy contract:</text> <level label="1"> <text>property taxes and mortgage debt are current;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>there are no outstanding or unsatisfied liens;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>there are no notices of default or other evidence of property–based debt delinquency for the lesser of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the 3 years immediately preceding the contract date; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the length of time that the property owner has owned the property; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the regulated sustainable energy contract has not been objected to under § 9–20D–04(b) of this subtitle by a party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on the property that would be subject to the regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-06" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <level label="a"> <text>A property owner may subject property to a regulated sustainable energy contract by recording or authorizing the recordation of the regulated sustainable energy contract among the land records in the county where the property is located.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to § 9–20D–08 of this subtitle, a person who acquires property subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract, whether by purchase or other means, assumes the obligation to pay the qualified contractor in accordance with the rate and payment schedules in the regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A person selling or transferring a property subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract shall provide written notice to the person acquiring the property that the person acquiring the property shall assume the obligation to pay the qualified contractor in accordance with the rate and payment schedules in the regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-07" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <text>The Administration may revoke the authorization of a qualified contractor under this subtitle if the Administration determines that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the qualified contractor is not complying with the terms of the authorization;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>there is an excessive number of consumer complaints; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the authorization is no longer serving the purpose of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20D-08" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20D" subtitle_name="Regulated Sustainable Energy Contracts"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to subsection (c) of this section, a qualified contractor may collect payments under a regulated sustainable energy contract that are in arrears, including the principal, interest, late charges, costs of collection, and reasonable attorney’s fees, by the imposition of a lien on property that is subject to the contract in accordance with the Maryland Contract Lien Act, Title 14, Subtitle 2 of the Real Property Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A lien imposed under paragraph (1) of this subsection may not take priority over a lien, mortgage, deed of trust, or other security interest that is already attached to the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If a property subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract is foreclosed under Title 7, Subtitle 1 of the Real Property Article, any deficiency due as a result of a lien arising from the regulated sustainable energy contract shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>added to the total balance due on the contract; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>subject to periodic payment as provided in the contract.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If a party that holds a recorded mortgage or deed of trust on a property subject to a regulated sustainable energy contract acquires the property through foreclosure, the party may not be charged for any amount due on the regulated sustainable energy contract.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Payment on a regulated sustainable energy contract shall resume when the property subject to the regulated sustainable energy contract is sold or transferred to a person who is not related to the person who held the recorded mortgage or deed of trust when the property was foreclosed.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20E-01" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20E"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administration” means the Maryland Energy Administration.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Alternative compliance fee” means a fee paid in accordance with § 7–705 of the Public Utilities Article to the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund established under § 9–20B–05 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Auction” means an alternative compliance fee auction.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Capacity target” means the lesser of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the calculation of the amount of renewable energy generation needed in a given year to satisfy the renewable energy portfolio standard under § 7–703 of the Public Utilities Article for a specific year, minus the amount already procured from other sources; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the amount of renewable energy that can be procured using alternative compliance fees available for the auction.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Commission” means the Public Service Commission.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Renewable energy” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>energy generated from:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a Tier 1 renewable source that does not participate in net energy metering under § 7–306, § 7–306.2, § 7–306.3, or § 7–306.4 of the Public Utilities Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a Tier 1 renewable source that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meets the requirements of item (i) of this paragraph; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>includes a co–located energy storage device; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an energy storage device that is planned to be co–located with a Tier 1 renewable source; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>energy from an energy storage device that is not planned to be co–located with a Tier 1 renewable source.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Tier 1 renewable source” has the meaning stated in § 7–701 of the Public Utilities Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-20E-02" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="20E"> <level label="a"> <text>For 2027 and 2028, the Administration shall conduct, in consultation with the Commission, an annual, competitive, alternative compliance fee auction to award grants to eligible bidders to offset a portion of project costs associated with the development of renewable energy in the State using revenue from alternative compliance fees.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration, in consultation with the Commission, shall develop and conduct the auctions in a manner that is cost–effective and maintains and promotes the development of renewable energy in the State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The competitive auction process may require the Administration to solicit a series of bids from renewable energy project developers for the development of renewable energy projects in a cost–effective manner.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>To be eligible to submit a bid under this section, a person must:</text> <level label="i"> <text>be a renewable energy project developer; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>meet the minimum credit and other eligibility requirements set under paragraph (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Administration, in consultation with the Commission, shall set eligibility requirements for bidders, including requiring each bidder to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide proof of financial integrity;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>post a bond or other similar instrument;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>agree to be subject to all applicable taxes and fees;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>demonstrate the ability to finance, execute, and commission projects;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>provide, in accordance with paragraph (3) of this subsection, evidence that is satisfactory to the Administration that awarded funds are necessary for the renewable energy project to be constructed; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>comply with any other requirements the Administration determines are in the public interest.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The evidence provided under paragraph (2)(v) of this subsection shall be provided to the Administration and maintained by the Administration in a manner that keeps the evidence confidential.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Eligible bidders shall submit competitive bids by specifying:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the actual amount of megawatts to be generated by the renewable energy project;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a price per megawatt that would be required from the auction; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any other information the Administration determines is necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Administration shall rank bids from lowest to highest cost per megawatt and award funds derived from alternative compliance fees to the lowest bid or bids.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Administration shall prioritize bids for renewable energy projects specified in § 9–20E–01(g)(1) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Administration shall award bids until the capacity target is reached.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Administration may refuse to accept some or all of the bids made in a competitive auction in accordance with standards adopted by the Administration.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>If the capacity target can be met at a cost below the allocated funding, the Administration may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>carry forward any funding to the next auction, if applicable; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>apply the funds for any additional megawatts of renewable energy that have been offered under the auction.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Any amount of allocated funding that is not carried forward or applied under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall accrue in the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund and may be allocated for any purpose for which alternative compliance fee revenue is authorized to be used.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Administration shall set delivery deadlines for each renewable energy project that is awarded funding from an auction.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The deadlines set in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include milestones that require the developer to meet certain delivery goals during the development of a renewable energy project.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Administration may grant extensions for delivery goals that are delayed due to interconnection or permitting challenges or delays if the developer provides documentation of the challenge or delay.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Administration shall establish a method of collection against any developer awarded a grant under this section to recapture any funds received as a result of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>misappropriation, overpayment, or fraud; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>failure to meet milestones or delivery dates.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Within 90 days after all grants for renewable energy projects are executed, the Administration shall publicly disclose the names of each successful bidder and the megawatts to be delivered by the development of the renewable energy project.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>On or before July 1, 2027, and July 1, 2028, the Administration, in consultation with the Commission, shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on the administration of the immediately preceding auction, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the amount of megawatts or megawatt–hours, as applicable, that received financial support through the auction;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the cost per megawatt of renewable energy allocated in the auction;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the number of renewable energy credits projected to be created as a result of the auction; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>any other information the Administration and the Commission consider relevant.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2201" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="22" subtitle_name="Board of Advisors for Electronic Commerce"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Application service provider” means an entity that provides access to or deployment of business software applications and services over the Internet.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“ASP” means application service provider.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Board” means the CEO Board of Advisors for E-Commerce.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Consortium” means the “eMaryland” ASP Consortium.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“E-commerce” means electronic business and commerce.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2202" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="22" subtitle_name="Board of Advisors for Electronic Commerce"> <text>The CEO Board of Advisors for E-Commerce and the “eMaryland” ASP Consortium are established under this subtitle to assist in the State’s efforts to create the most advanced electronic business environment in the nation and become an international leader in the deployment of new Internet technologies.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2203" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="22" subtitle_name="Board of Advisors for Electronic Commerce"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a CEO Board of Advisors for E-Commerce.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board may not exceed 12 members and shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate and serve at the pleasure of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each member of the Board serves for a period of 3 years and may be reappointed.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Governor shall designate two representatives of State government to serve as ex officio members of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The members appointed by the Governor shall be industry leaders who have substantial experience and expertise in electronic commerce.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Governor shall designate a chairman or cochairmen from among the members.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Board shall meet at least twice annually.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Governor on economic development policies and initiatives to advance the promotion, deployment, and use of e-commerce in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>recommend ways to improve the State’s position as an international leader of e-commerce; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>provide policy guidance to the “eMaryland” ASP Consortium and related ASP initiatives.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A member of the Board may not receive compensation as a member but is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Department of Budget and Management and University of Maryland, College Park Campus shall provide staff support to the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2204" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="22" subtitle_name="Board of Advisors for Electronic Commerce"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an “eMaryland” ASP Consortium at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The general purpose of the Consortium is to promote the deployment of Internet–based technologies in Maryland.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Consortium shall develop strategic partnerships with the State, institutions of higher education, federal agencies, and world class technology companies to carry out its mission.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Consortium shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>develop pilot models for the deployment of Internet–based applications for government and educational institutions, such as procurement, financial, and human resource management applications;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>participate in collaborations to promote the development and testing of ASP technologies in Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>provide advice and assistance to small start–up companies wishing to utilize ASP technologies; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>work with industry and public agencies to research and develop emerging e–commerce technologies.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a management committee for the Consortium.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The management committee is responsible for approving the activities of the Consortium and providing direction and oversight.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The management committee shall be composed of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Secretary of Information Technology;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Chief Information Officer at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Director of the Supply Chain Management Center at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Technology Development Corporation; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a member appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2301" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="23" subtitle_name="Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority Act"> <level label="a"> <text>The definitions in § 1-101 of this article do not apply to the interstate compact set forth in § 9-2303 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In the interstate compact set forth in § 9-2303 of this subtitle, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, “article”, “section”, and “subsection” mean an article, section, and subsection, respectively, of the interstate compact.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2302" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="23" subtitle_name="Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority Act"> <text>On behalf of this State, the Governor shall execute, with the City of Baltimore, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the District of Columbia, an interstate compact substantially as it appears in § 9-2303 of this subtitle.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2303" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="23" subtitle_name="Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority Act"> <text>The Commonwealth of Virginia, the State of Maryland, the District of Columbia, and the City of Baltimore, hereinafter “Signatories,” hereby enter into an interstate compact, as set forth below, for the purpose of hosting the 2012 Olympic Games. This interstate compact shall be known and may be cited as the Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority Act.</text> <text>Article I.</text> <text>Findings.</text> <text>The Maryland General Assembly finds that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>For some time now, the State of Maryland (including the City of Baltimore), the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Virginia, through the nonprofit organization known as the Washington/Baltimore Regional 2012 Coalition (WBRC 2012), have been actively engaged in national competition to win the U.S. Candidate City designation and, subsequently, the Host City designation and the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Hosting the Olympic Games will provide several major, lasting, and unique benefits for all of the citizens of the Chesapeake region, including:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Direct, positive economic impact on our regional economy;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An opportunity to showcase our region to the world;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A catalyst for regional action; and</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A renewed sense of pride along with a tangible legacy (e.g. new and improved venues and enhanced transportation infrastructure).</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Independent economic studies show that preparing for and hosting the Olympic Games will have a positive economic impact on the region, including:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Direct and indirect spending in excess of $5,000,000,000;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The creation of approximately 70,000 jobs;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Increased tax revenues resulting from Olympic related economic activity in excess of $130,000,000, without raising or creating any new taxes; and</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A lasting improvement in the region’s competitive position within the travel/tourism industry, as well as the region’s ability to attract new businesses.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The citizens of the region have responded positively to WBRC 2012’s efforts and solidly embraced the cause to host the Olympic Games, expressed in part by the endorsement of scores of local business, civic, governmental, academic, and amateur sports organizations, and by survey results that show:</text> <level label="a"> <text>82% of the region’s residents support the effort to bring the 2012 Olympic Games to this area; and</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>86% of area residents believe that the Olympic Games will bring substantial economic benefits to our region.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Through the submission of the region’s official bid proposal to the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) on December 15, 2000, WBRC 2012 reached a milestone in the process of capturing the Olympic Games by providing a 631-page logistical, operational, and financial blueprint for hosting the 2012 Games.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The bid proposal highlights the great venues and vistas found in our region and is developed around key principles, including:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Building less, not more;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Utilizing mass transit; and</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Protecting the environment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>In addition to the region’s bid proposal, the USOC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) require certain government guarantees and commitments in conjunction with hosting the 2012 Olympic Games, should our region win the U.S. Candidate City designation.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Our unique regional approach to winning the right to host the Olympic Games creates the added complication of determining which entities will provide the necessary guarantees.</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>It is incumbent upon WBRC 2012 and government leaders to move forward together now to craft the solution that best “lives regionalism” and maximizes the region’s chances of winning the 2012 Olympic Games, and reaping the many benefits that come with this honor.</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>Given that all four jurisdictions - Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Baltimore - will host a significant number of events and reap substantial benefits, the most effective solution for all four jurisdictions is to enter into a single agreement that gives the USOC (and subsequently the IOC) a single focal point and a united front that reflects the regional nature of our bid.</text> <text>Article II.</text> <text>Purpose.</text> <text>The purpose of this Act is to create a Regional Authority to oversee the conduct of the 2012 Olympic Games, coordinated and managed by the local Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOG), and to assure that the region’s guarantees and commitments accepted in conjunction with hosting the Olympic Games are fulfilled.</text> <text>Article III.</text> <text>Definitions.</text> <text>For the purposes of this Act, the term:</text> </level> <level label="a"> <text>“Bid proposal” shall mean the bid formally submitted by WBRC 2012 to the USOC on December 15, 2000;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Host City” shall mean the entity which has been selected by the International Olympic Committee to host the 2012 Olympic Games;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“International Olympic Committee” and “IOC” shall mean the International Olympic Committee, a body corporate under international law created by the Congress of Paris of 23rd June, 1894, and having perpetual succession;</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Olympic Games” shall mean any Olympic Games sponsored and governed by the International Olympic Committee and any other educational, cultural, athletic, or sporting events related or preliminary thereto;</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games,” and “OCOG” shall mean the Committee formed by WBRC 2012 to organize and conduct the Olympic Games, if WBRC 2012 is selected by the IOC as the “Host City” in 2005;</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Regional Authority” shall mean the Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority;</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Signatories” shall mean the Commonwealth of Virginia, the State of Maryland, the District of Columbia, and the City of Baltimore;</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“United States Olympic Committee” and “USOC” shall mean the United States Olympic Committee, incorporated by Act of Congress on September 21, 1950, and having perpetual succession;</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“U.S. Candidate City” shall mean the entity which has received the United States Olympic Committee’s endorsement to submit to the IOC the sole bid from the United States for the hosting of the 2012 Olympic Games; and</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“WBRC 2012” shall mean Washington/Baltimore Regional 2012 Coalition, a not for profit corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland, and its successors.</text> <text>Article IV.</text> <text>Creation of the Regional Authority.</text> <text>The Signatories hereby provide the mechanism for the creation and termination of the “Chesapeake Regional Olympic Games Authority,” hereinafter “Regional Authority,” which shall be an instrumentality of the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Virginia, the State of Maryland, and the City of Baltimore, and shall have the powers and duties set forth herein, and those additional powers and duties conferred upon it by subsequent actions of the Signatories:</text> </level> <level label="a"> <text>The Regional Authority shall come into existence by the force of this Act when and if, and only if, the IOC awards the 2012 Olympic Games in year 2005 to WBRC 2012, as the U.S. Candidate City and the official representative of the Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia, and Baltimore region; and</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Regional Authority shall, if ever brought into existence, cease to exist by the force of this Act on January 1, 2014, unless extended by substantially similar future legislation enacted by each of the Signatories; and</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Until such time as the Regional Authority may be triggered into existence, the combined signatures of the Governors of Virginia and Maryland, and the Mayors of the District of Columbia and the City of Baltimore, on any and all documents necessary and appropriate to the pursuit of the 2012 Olympic Games shall be deemed binding on future actions of the Regional Authority. For the purposes of this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>The above referenced signatures may be on the same document, on separate but materially and substantially similar documents, or any combination thereof; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>No individual signature shall be deemed effective until such time as all four above referenced signatures are obtained.</text> <text>Article V.</text> <text>Regional Authority Composition; Terms of Service; Order of Business; Accounting.</text> </level> </level> <level label="1"> <level label="a"> <text>The Regional Authority shall be composed of 11 “voting members,” as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>The State of Maryland shall be entitled to three voting members, to be appointed by the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Commonwealth of Virginia shall be entitled to three voting members, to be appointed by the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The District of Columbia shall be entitled to three voting members, to be appointed by the Mayor;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>The City of Baltimore shall be entitled to one voting member, to be appointed by the Mayor; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>The Washington/Baltimore Regional 2012 Coalition, a not for profit corporation created for the sole purpose of bringing the Olympic Games to the region, or the OCOG, shall be entitled to one voting member, to be appointed in a manner consistent with its usual procedure;</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Regional Authority shall cause to be formed a Regional Authority Advisory Committee, which shall be comprised of representatives (“advisory members”) from each of the local jurisdictions substantially impacted by hosting the Olympic Games in the region, in a manner to be determined by the Regional Authority;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Reasonable efforts should be made to ensure that appointments of voting members and advisory members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Are residents of the regional community with relevant and useful experience, and with sufficient time to devote to the duties of the Regional Authority, to help facilitate the successful hosting of the Olympic Games;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Reflect the geographical diversity inherent in the regional nature of WBRC 2012’s bid proposal; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Reflect the cultural, ethnic, and racial diversity inherent in the Chesapeake Region; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Voting members shall not be financially compensated for their service on the Regional Authority; such service shall be considered voluntary. Voting members may be reimbursed by the Regional Authority for normal and customary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the voting members of the Regional Authority shall be as follows:</text> <level label="a"> <text>The initial terms of office of the voting members shall be 2 years from the date of appointment, and all subsequent terms of office of the voting members shall be for 2 years. Each voting member shall hold office until his or her successor shall be appointed and duly qualified. Any voting member of the Regional Authority may succeed himself or herself; and</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>All vacancies in the membership of the voting members of the Regional Authority, whether caused by expiration of term of office, death, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled in the same manner as that membership was originally filled. The term of any voting member, appointed to fill an unexpired term, shall be for the remainder of the term.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Regional Authority shall elect from its membership a chairman, a vice chairman, a secretary, and a treasurer. Such officers shall serve for such terms as shall be prescribed by resolution of the Regional Authority or until their successors are elected and qualified. No voting member of the Regional Authority shall hold more than one office on the Regional Authority.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Regional Authority shall hold meetings in accordance with the following:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Regular meetings of the Regional Authority shall be held on such dates and at such time and place as shall be fixed by resolution of the Regional Authority;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Special meetings of the Regional Authority may be called by resolution of the Authority, by the chairman or vice chairman, or upon the written request of at least three voting members of the Regional Authority;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Written notice of all meetings shall be delivered to each voting member, not less than 3 days prior to the date of such meeting in the case of regular meetings and not less than 24 hours in the case of special meetings;</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Each voting member should make all reasonable efforts to be in attendance at meetings called by the Regional Authority; and</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A majority of the voting members of the Regional Authority in office shall constitute a quorum. A majority of the quorum is empowered to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the Regional Authority and no vacancy on the Regional Authority shall impair the right of such majority to act. If at any meeting there is less than a quorum present, a majority of those present may adjourn the meeting to a fixed time and place, and notice of such time and place shall be given in accordance with subsection (c) of this section, provided that if the notice period under subsection (c) of this section cannot reasonably be complied with, such notice, if any, of such adjourned meeting shall be given as is reasonably practical.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Regional Authority shall establish rules and regulations for its own governance, not inconsistent with this Act.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Regional Authority shall:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Make provision for a system of financial accounting and controls, audits, and reports. All accounting systems and records, auditing procedures and standards, and financial reporting shall conform to generally accepted principles of governmental accounting. All financial records, reports, and documents of the Regional Authority shall be public record and open to public inspection under reasonable regulations prescribed by the Regional Authority; and</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Adopt a fiscal year, establish a system of accounting and financial control, designate the necessary funds for complete accountability, and specify the basis of accounting for each such fund. The Regional Authority shall cause to be prepared a financial report on all funds at least quarterly and a comprehensive report on the fiscal operations and conditions of the Regional Authority annually.</text> <text>Article VI.</text> <text>Compliance with Local Law.</text> <text>The Regional Authority shall make every effort to comply with the local laws of each of the Signatories to this Act, regarding disclosure, appointment, and open meetings.</text> <text>Article VII.</text> <text>Funding of the Regional Authority.</text> </level> </level> <level label="1"> <text>The OCOG will provide reasonable funds for the operation of the Regional Authority and the conduct of its business in accordance with the provisions of this Act.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For the purposes of this article, payment of any insurance premiums incurred by the Regional Authority under the authority granted to it by Article VIII shall not be considered operations funds referred to in subsection 1 of this article. The OCOG shall pay only such insurance premiums as are reasonable.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The OCOG shall not be responsible for any financial liability that the Regional Authority may incur under Article VIII of this Act.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Regional Authority shall submit to the OCOG a planned budget for the Regional Authority’s next fiscal year, adopted consistent with Article V 6 (b) of this Act, no less than 90 days before the beginning of the next fiscal year.</text> <text>Article VIII.</text> <text>Regional Authority Oversight of the Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games; Additional Powers.</text> </level> <level label="1"> <text>The Regional Authority, in recognition of its oversight responsibility over the OCOG, shall have access to:</text> <level label="a"> <text>The quarterly financial statements of the OCOG;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The annual business plans of the OCOG; and</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>All other OCOG documents necessary to achieve its oversight purpose.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Regional Authority shall have the power to enforce OCOG budgetary and planning changes when:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Review by the Regional Authority of the OCOG financial statements, annual business plans, or other documents contemplated in Article VIII 1 of this Act suggests:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Economic shortfalls that would possibly trigger the Regional Authority’s liability outlined in Article VIII 3 of this Act; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The OCOG will fail to host the Olympic Games in a manner that would satisfy the requirements of the USOC or the IOC; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Such changes are supported by a majority of the voting members of the Regional Authority, notwithstanding the quorum requirements of Article V 4 (e) of this Act.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Regional Authority, in recognition of its duties as overseer of the OCOG, shall:</text> <level label="a"> <text>Be bound by the terms of, cause the OCOG to perform, and guaranty performance of the OCOG’s obligations under all documents necessary and appropriate to the pursuit of the Olympic Games;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Certify the OCOG’s performance of such obligations as requested by the USOC from time to time;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Accept liability for the OCOG, if any, as far as required by all documents necessary and appropriate to the pursuit and hosting of the Olympic Games, provided, however, that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>With regard to third-party tort liabilities, the OCOG will both indemnify the State against any and all such claims and provide that the State be named as an additional insured on all appropriate insurance policies, and, in any event, nothing contained herein shall in any way modify the State’s existing liability limitation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>With regard to all other liabilities arising out of this subsection, the OCOG agrees to hold the State harmless and indemnify the State for any such losses; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Should the State incur any liabilities, the liabilities shall count against the total limit (or cap) on the State’s liabilities as noted in section (d) of this article and Article IX 1 below; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Accept liability, if any, with the OCOG, for any financial deficit of the OCOG, or the Olympic Games, as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>The OCOG shall be responsible for any amount up to $25 million;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Regional Authority shall be liable for any amount in excess of $25 million, but not to exceed an additional $175 million; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Except as set forth in existing applicable law, the OCOG and the Regional Authority shall not be limited in their choice of funding sources for covering possible financial losses, including but not limited to the purchase of insurance, if commercially available and reasonably priced.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Regional Authority, in its financial oversight and safeguard role, shall ensure that:</text> <level label="a"> <text>No legacy programs, funds, or accounts shall be funded from any of the proceeds of the 2012 Olympic Games until all budgetary and operational financial obligations of the OCOG and the Regional Authority for hosting the Olympic Games are first met; and</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>No liability for any financial deficit resulting from the 2012 Olympic Games shall accrue to the Regional Authority (or the Signatories) until all budgetary and/or operational financial surpluses of the OCOG, if any, are applied to all outstanding financial obligations of the OCOG and the Regional Authority, if any, accrued exclusively in connection with hosting the Olympic Games.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Regional Authority, in order to facilitate its oversight responsibility over the OCOG, shall have the additional powers:</text> <level label="a"> <text>To sue and be sued in contract and in tort;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>To complain and defend in all courts;</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>To implead and be impleaded;</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>To enter into contracts;</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>To hire appropriate staff; and</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Any additional powers granted to it by subsequent legislation.</text> <text>Article IX.</text> <text>Indemnification.</text> </level> </level> <level label="1"> <text>Any liability incurred by the Regional Authority, not covered by insurance under Article VIII 3 (d)(iii), shall be further indemnified by the Signatories of this Act, in proportion to the relative economic benefit currently expected to accrue to each Signatory from hosting the Olympic Games, as follows:</text> <level label="a"> <text>The State of Maryland, subject to appropriation, shall be liable for 53%;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commonwealth of Virginia shall be liable for 19%; and</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The District of Columbia shall be liable for 28%.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each of the Signatories to this Act may provide for its share of any possible liability in any manner it may choose, as befits each Signatory’s independent commitment.</text> <text>Article X.</text> <text>Commitments of Signatories.</text> <text>As appropriate to its individual jurisdiction and specific role in hosting the 2012 Olympic Games, each Signatory agrees to:</text> </level> <level label="a"> <text>Ensure that necessary facilities are built and transportation infrastructure improvements take place, including government funding as appropriate;</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Provide access to existing state/city-controlled facilities and other important resources as specified in WBRC 2012’s bid proposal, in accordance with applicable law and contractual obligations; and</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Provide adequate security, fire protection, and other government related services at a reasonable cost to ensure for the safe and orderly operation of the Olympic Games.</text> <text>Article XI.</text> <text>Effective Dates.</text> <text>None of the duties or responsibilities encompassed in this legislation shall have effect until substantially similar legislation is enacted by each of the Signatories, at which time this legislation shall immediately be effective.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2401" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“American Sign Language” means a visual–spatial method of communication that is a distinct language involving the hands, arms, facial markers, and body movements to communicate with others, including through the conveyance of thoughts, words, emotions, and grammatical information.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Behavioral health setting” means a setting that provides:</text> <level label="1"> <text>psychiatric or psychological assessment or screening;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>group or individual psychotherapy, counseling, or treatment; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>rehabilitation services for substance use disorders, addictive disorders, mental disorders, or a combination of these disorders.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Sign Language Interpreters within the Office.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Council” means the Maryland Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing Individuals.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>“Deaf and hard of hearing individuals” means those residents of Maryland who have a partial or complete loss of hearing.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Deaf and hard of hearing individuals” includes individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, and late–deafened.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Deafblind” means those residents of Maryland who have concomitant vision and hearing loss.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Director” means the Director of the Office.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Fund” means the Sign Language Interpreters Fund.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Heritage signer” means an individual who used American Sign Language as a primary language in childhood.</text> </level> <level label="k"> <text>“Legal setting” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>court proceedings;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>attorney–client conferences;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>investigations by law enforcement;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>depositions;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>witness interviews;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>real estate settlements; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>administrative and legislative hearings.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>“License” means a license issued under Part III of this subtitle to provide sign language interpretation services.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <text>“Medical setting” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an acute care hospital;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an urgent care center;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an outpatient clinic;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>short–term care facilities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>long–term care facilities;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>a physician’s office; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>home health care.</text> </level> </level> <level label="n"> <text>“Nationally or regionally recognized certification” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a certification issued and recognized by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the National Association of the Deaf (NAD);</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID); or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Board of Evaluation for Interpreters (BEI); or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any other certification issued by a national or regional organization that is recognized by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="o"> <text>“Office” means the Office of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing.</text> </level> <level label="p"> <level label="1"> <text>“Provide sign language interpretation services” means to convey the meaning of a message that is expressed in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an oral or signed language by rendering the message in American Sign Language; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>American Sign Language by rendering the message in an oral or signed language.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Provide sign language interpretation services” includes providing sign language interpretation services in a video remote interpreting setting.</text> </level> </level> <level label="q"> <text>“Restorative justice program” means a program designed to repair harm caused to all individuals involved in a crime through mediation, dialogue, or group conferencing between a licensee and any aggrieved party or complainant.</text> </level> <level label="r"> <text>“School setting” means a setting in which the following are provided:</text> <level label="1"> <text>educational programs or services offered by a public or nonpublic school; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>career training programs for secondary education students that are regulated by the State Department of Education.</text> </level> </level> <level label="s"> <text>“Sign language interpreter” means an individual who is licensed by the Board to provide sign language interpretation services.</text> </level> <level label="t"> <text>“Video Relay Service” means the federally reimbursed and regulated program established to enable phone calls between users of American Sign Language and individuals who do not use American Sign Language by videoconferencing technology and the use of the services of a remotely located sign language interpreter.</text> </level> <level label="u"> <level label="1"> <text>“Video remote interpreting setting” means providing sign language interpretation services by videoconferencing in which the participants are in one location and the interpreter is in a separate location.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Video remote interpreting setting” does not include Video Relay Service.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2402" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>In the Office of the Governor, there is an Office of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The head of the Office is the Director.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Director is appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Director serves at the pleasure of the Governor and is responsible directly to the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Director shall be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a deaf or hard of hearing person; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>knowledgeable and experienced with issues affecting deaf and hard of hearing individuals.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Director is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>advise the Governor on all matters assigned to the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>carry out the Governor’s policies on the matters assigned to the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Director shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>manage the operation of the Office and establish guidelines and procedures to promote the orderly and efficient operation of the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>adopt regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this subtitle, the Director may establish, reorganize, or consolidate areas of responsibility in the Office as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities assigned by the Director.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office shall be given adequate staff and funding to carry out its duties.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2403" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office shall be responsible for promoting the general welfare of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The responsibilities of the Office shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>providing, advocating, and coordinating the adoption of public policies, regulations, and programs that will benefit deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>improving access to communication and to existing services and programs for deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>providing direct services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals as appropriate;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>increasing public awareness of the needs and issues affecting deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>working with State and local agencies to ensure access for deaf and hard of hearing individuals to safety and emergency services;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>developing a referral service for deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>serving as an information clearinghouse on the needs and issues affecting deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>working to increase access for deaf and hard of hearing individuals to educational, health, and social opportunities;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>working with private organizations, the federal government, and other units of State government to promote economic development for deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>working to eliminate the underemployment and unemployment of deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>providing a network through which services provided by State and federal programs serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals can be channeled;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>promoting compliance with State, local, and federal laws and policies protecting and serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>providing appropriate staff to assist the Board in carrying out its duties; and</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>providing a nomination process for Board appointments.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Office shall hold at least two public town hall meetings each year to receive public comments on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the quality of State services and programs affecting deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the functions and operations of the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other issues that affect deaf and hard of hearing individuals, including those specified in subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>help facilitate the appropriate delivery of State, local, and other public services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>advise other units of State government and the General Assembly on the needs of deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>subject to appropriations in the State budget, provide any reasonable resources that any other unit of State government requests to serve or assist deaf and hard of hearing individuals; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>to the greatest extent possible, in order to avoid any duplication of effort, coordinate with other units of the State and the federal government the services provided to deaf and hard of hearing individuals.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2404" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Maryland Advisory Council on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Council consists of members appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the Council members, at least five of the members shall be deaf and hard of hearing individuals.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Of the Council members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one shall be the State Superintendent or a designee from the State Department of Education;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Maryland Department of Health;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Department of Human Services;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Department of Transportation;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>one shall be from the Commission on Civil Rights;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Maryland Department of Labor;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Department of Housing and Community Development;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>one shall be the Superintendent or a designee from the Maryland School for the Deaf;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Department of Aging;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>one shall be the Secretary or a designee from the Department of Disabilities; and</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>nine shall be from the general public.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The nine members from the general public shall be chosen from different geographical areas of the State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the nine members from the general public:</text> <level label="i"> <text>five shall be deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one shall be a private citizen with special knowledge or expertise relating to services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one shall be a parent of a deaf or hard of hearing child;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one shall be from a private agency providing services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>one shall be a person with special knowledge or expertise relating to services to individuals who are deafblind.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2405" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>The term of a member of the Council is 3 years.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Council on October 1, 2001.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A member may not serve consecutively more than two 3-year terms.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Any member who fails to attend at least 50 percent of the regularly scheduled meetings during any 12-month period shall be considered to have resigned.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2406" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>The Council shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Office in carrying out its duties;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>review statewide activities for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, including reviewing reports and publications of committees and commissions;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>foster coordination of and support for programs for deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>study ways to maximize the use of the facilities and services available to deaf and hard of hearing individuals;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>hold:</text> <level label="i"> <text>at least quarterly, regularly scheduled meetings; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>open meetings to provide direct communication, between deaf and hard of hearing individuals and private and public organizations and the general public, about programs and services for and needs of deaf and hard of hearing individuals; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>assist any local governing body of a county to establish a local advisory council for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the county for purposes of implementing the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other relevant State and federal laws.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2407" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>On or before January 1, 2002, and annually thereafter, the Director shall submit to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the members of the General Assembly, a report on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the activities of the Office;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the status of programs and services facilitated by the Office;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the activities of the Board, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the number of sign language interpreters licensed by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the number of licensed sign language interpreters in each county:</text> <level label="1"> <text>determined by the licensee’s home address; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the licensee’s county or region of planned employment, if known; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the number of complaints received by the Board, differentiated by the type of complaint;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>statistics on compliance with State and federal laws related to deaf and hard of hearing individuals; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>recommendations for improved delivery of services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2410" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>There is a State Board of Sign Language Interpreters in the Office.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2411" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board consists of 11 members appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the 11 members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one shall be a member of the Maryland Association of the Deaf;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one shall be a deafblind individual;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one shall be a deaf individual;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>three shall be interpreters for the deaf who hold a license under this part;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>one shall be an interpreter for the deaf who holds a license under this part and owns or is affiliated with an interpreter agency;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>two shall be affiliated with an entity that operates and implements deaf services in an educational, legal, or medical setting;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>the Secretary of Disabilities, or the Secretary’s designee, as an ex officio nonvoting member; and</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee, as an ex officio nonvoting member.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the members from a list of names submitted from a nomination process established by the Office.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The nomination process shall include outreach to underrepresented deaf, deafblind, and interpreter communities.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>To the extent practicable, the members appointed under this section shall reflect the racial and geographic diversity of the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each member shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>be a resident of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>except for the ex officio nonvoting members and the members under subsection (a)(2)(vi) of this section, be proficient in American Sign Language.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Before taking office, each member appointed to the Board shall take the oath or affirmation required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a Board member is 2 years, beginning on the date of appointment.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member appointed after a term has begun serves only for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member may not serve more than three consecutive full terms.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor may remove a member for incompetence, misconduct, neglect of duties, two or more successive unexcused absences, or other sufficient cause.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Governor shall remove a member who:</text> <level label="i"> <text>ceases to meet the requirements under which the member was appointed under subsection (a) of this section; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>fails to attend at least 50% of the regularly scheduled meetings of the Board during any 12–month period.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2412" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall elect the chair from among its members.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The term of the chair is 2 years.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall meet at least once each quarter at the times and places set by the Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board may call special meetings at the request of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the chair;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Director; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a majority of the members of the Board.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A majority of the voting members is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A member of the Board:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Board; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2413" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>To enforce the provisions of this part, the Board may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in consultation with the Office, conduct investigations and hold hearings on any matter covered by this title, at any time and place in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>administer oaths;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>examine witnesses; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>receive evidence.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2414" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>license qualified individuals to provide sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on or before July 1, 2027, establish and publish licensing requirements for sign language interpreting in all settings;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>provide technical assistance to license applicants and other interested persons;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>promote the profession of sign language interpreting, including providing workshops and trainings to raise public awareness and to facilitate professional development; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>perform any other duties assigned by the Director.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere in this subtitle and with the support of the Office, the Board shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the provisions of this part;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>adopt bylaws for the conduct of its proceedings;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>adopt a seal;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>keep a record of its proceedings;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>keep a file on each applicant for a license;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>establish a visiting sign language interpreter registry;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>develop and maintain a website that shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a portal to accept license applications and related documentation, complaints, and registrations of visiting sign language interpreters; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a publicly searchable database of sign language interpreters; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>reasonably seek additional funding sources.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In addition to any powers set forth elsewhere, the Board may adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this part.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2415" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>After completion of the report required under subsection (b) of this section, the Board may establish criteria for the development of portfolios and separate requirements in the following specialist areas:</text> <level label="1"> <text>legal settings;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>medical settings;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>educational settings;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>behavioral health settings;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>language pairs other than American Sign Language and spoken English;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>conference interpreting;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>tactile and low–vision sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>intralinguistic translations and sign language interpretation; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>any other specialist areas determined to be necessary by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>At least 60 days before the Board promulgates regulations to establish criteria under subsection (a) of this section, the Board shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment and the House Government, Labor, and Elections Committee, on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>how national and regional certification standards define or limit specialist areas;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the number of interpreters in the State and neighboring states certified in specialist areas;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an evaluation of how separate requirements for specialist areas may impact access to interpreter services in each setting; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>recommendations on whether, and in what form, specialty licensure requirements should be implemented in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In completing the report under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Board shall consult with stakeholders, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Maryland Department of Health;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Maryland Association of the Deaf;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Maryland Hospital Association;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>interpreters and interpreter agencies;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the Maryland Judiciary;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the Maryland State Department of Education;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>the Maryland State Education Association;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>the Public Schools Superintendents’ Association of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>the Maryland Association of Boards of Education; and</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>the Maryland Department of Disabilities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Office shall provide staff to assist the Board in completion of the report required under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>govern sign language interpretation services provided in a video remote interpreting setting;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>establish licensing and certification standards of interpreting agencies that do business in the State;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>allow deaf and hard of hearing individuals to indicate whether they prefer sign language interpretation services being provided in a video remote interpreting setting or through in–person interpreting; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>require public entities to provide reasonable accommodations to support the preferences indicated by the deaf and hard of hearing individuals under item (i) of this item, to the extent practicable and in compliance with 28 C.F.R. § 35.160 and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>provide sign language interpretation services in a video remote interpreting setting.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2416" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Sign Language Interpreters Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall set by regulation reasonable fees for the issuance and renewal of licenses and other services.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall publish in its rules and regulations the fee schedule set by the Board.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall pay all fees collected under this part to the Comptroller.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Comptroller shall distribute the fees to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Fund shall be used exclusively to cover the actual documented direct and indirect costs of fulfilling the statutory and regulatory duties of the Board as provided by the provisions of this part, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the development of programs that will assist in the licensure of marginalized interpreters, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Black, Indigenous, or Persons of Color (BIPOC) signers;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>heritage signers; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>deaf individuals;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the development of mentorship programs for individuals who provide sign language interpretation services; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>applicants experiencing financial hardship in the payment of licensing fees.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Director shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>revenue distributed to the Fund under subsection (b) of this section;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget for the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any investment earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2417" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>The Board exercises its powers, duties, and functions subject to the authority of the Governor.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2418" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this part, an individual shall be licensed by the Board before the individual may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide sign language interpretation services in the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>represent to the public, by description of services or use of a title or designation, that the individual is authorized to provide sign language interpretation services in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This section does not apply to an individual who:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provides sign language interpretation services as part of a supervised internship or practicum for an accredited institution of higher education and does not provide sign language interpretation services in the following settings:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a behavioral health setting, unless the individual is accompanied by a licensed sign language interpreter;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an emergency medical setting, unless the individual is accompanied by a licensed sign language interpreter;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a legal setting; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a school setting, unless the individual is accompanied by a licensed sign language interpreter;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provides sign language interpretation services as part of a Video Relay Service;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>holds a nationally or regionally recognized certification in sign language interpreting and does not provide sign language interpretation services in the State for more than 80 hours each calendar year, if the individual:</text> <level label="i"> <text>self–certifies eligibility for this exemption;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>notifies the Board of each sign language interpreting assignment within 10 days after completing the assignment; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>satisfies any other criteria established by the Board;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>provides sign language interpretation services as an uncompensated volunteer and in a setting in which a sign language interpreter is not otherwise required by law;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>provides sign language interpretation services to prevent undue harm in the event of an emergency until a licensed sign language interpreter becomes available; or</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>interprets between a pair of sign languages for which there is no nationally or regionally recognized certification.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2419" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>An applicant shall submit to the Board:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a completed application on the form provided by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payment of a nonrefundable application fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>proof of a valid nationally or regionally recognized certification or other certification approved by the Board; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>documentation of satisfactory completion of any other qualifications established by the Board.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2420" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this section, the Board may waive any requirement of this part for an applicant who is licensed to provide sign language interpretation services in another state.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall grant a waiver under this section only if the applicant:</text> <level label="1"> <text>pays to the Board:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the nonrefundable application fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the license fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provides satisfactory evidence that, at the time the applicant was licensed in the other state, the applicant was required to meet the qualifications for licensure that were substantially equivalent to the qualifications in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board may grant a waiver under this section only if the state in which the applicant is licensed waives the qualifications of licensees of the State to a similar extent as the State waives the qualification requirements for individuals licensed in that state.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2421" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>If an applicant qualifies for a license under this part, the Board shall send the applicant a notice that states that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the applicant has qualified for a license; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on receipt of the license fee set by the Board, the Board will issue a license to the applicant.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On payment of the license fee, the Board shall issue a license to each applicant who meets the requirements of this part.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A license issued under this section is nontransferable.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A licensee shall notify the Board in writing of any change in the licensee’s name or address within 60 days after the change.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2422" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>While a license is in effect, it authorizes the licensee to provide sign language interpretation services within the scope of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the nationally or regionally recognized certification or other approved certification held by the licensee; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any other limitations determined by the Board on the license.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2423" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Unless renewed by a licensee, a license expires on the date set by the Board.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Before a license expires, the licensee periodically may renew the license for an additional term, if the licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>otherwise is entitled to be licensed;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>pays to the Board the license fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>submits to the Board a renewal application on the form that the Board provides.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall renew the license of each licensee who meets the requirements of this section.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Board may adopt regulations to require a licensee to demonstrate continuing professional competency as a condition of renewal.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2424" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>The Board shall reinstate the license of an individual who for any reason has failed to renew the license if the individual:</text> <level label="1"> <text>applies to the Board for reinstatement of the license within the period of time established by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>meets the renewal requirements of § 9–2423 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>pays to the Board the renewal fee and the reinstatement fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2425" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this section, the Board shall issue a provisional license to provide sign language interpretation services to an individual who has:</text> <level label="1"> <text>taken and passed a nationally or regionally recognized knowledge and ethics exam or other exam approved by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>satisfied other requirements established by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board may issue a provisional license to an individual who:</text> <level label="1"> <text>except as provided in subsection (a) of this section, otherwise qualifies for a license;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>submits to the Board an application on the form that the Board provides;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>does not provide sign language interpretation services in a setting set forth in subsection (c) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>pays to the Board the application fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>While a provisional license is in effect, the license holder may not provide sign language interpretation services in the following settings:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a legal setting;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>except as a part of a formal mentorship, a medical setting, unless the individual is accompanied by a licensed sign language interpreter; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>except as a part of a formal mentorship, a behavioral health setting, unless the individual is accompanied by a licensed sign language interpreter.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A provisional license to provide sign language interpretation services expires on the third anniversary of its effective date.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this subsection, the Board may renew a provisional license for one additional 2–year term, if the license holder:</text> <level label="1"> <text>demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Board the individual’s continued efforts to achieve nationally or regionally recognized certification or to meet other qualifications established by the Board to qualify for a license under this part;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>submits to the Board a renewal application on the form that the Board provides; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>pays to the Board the renewal fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>An individual may not hold a provisional license for more than 5 years.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2426" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to the hearing provisions of § 9–2428 of this subtitle, the Board may deny a license to any applicant, reprimand any licensee, suspend or revoke a license, require a licensee to attend an educational course or training, or impose a penalty on a licensee if the applicant or licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>fraudulently or deceptively:</text> <level label="i"> <text>obtains or attempts to obtain a license for the applicant or licensee or for another;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>uses a license; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>provides sign language interpretation services after the expiration of a license;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is deemed legally incompetent to provide sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>engages in dishonest, unethical, immoral, or unprofessional conduct;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>uses alcohol or drugs before or during a sign language interpreting assignment, to the extent of being unfit to provide sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>advertises by means of knowingly false or deceptive statements;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>under the laws of the United States or of any state, is convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor that is directly related to the fitness and qualification of the applicant or licensee to provide sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>is the subject of disciplinary or other administrative action taken against the individual’s certification or license to provide sign language interpretation services in another state; or</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>violates any provision of this part or any regulation adopted by the Board under this part.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A licensee whose license is suspended or revoked under subsection (a) of this section shall return the license to the Board in the manner required by the Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An individual who violates paragraph (1) of this subsection may be subject to additional disciplinary action by the Board.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2427" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided under subsection (d) of this section, the Board shall commence disciplinary proceedings under § 9–2426 of this subtitle on receipt of a complaint submitted to the Board against an applicant or a licensee.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A complaint shall state specifically the facts on which the complaint is based.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the complaint is made by any person other than a member of the Board, the complaint shall be made under oath by the person who submits the complaint.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If the Board finds that a complaint alleges facts that are adequate grounds for action under § 9–2426 of this subtitle, the Board shall act on the complaint in accordance with § 9–2428 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the Board does not make a finding under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Board shall dismiss the complaint.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board may use a restorative justice program in lieu of taking final action on a complaint under § 9–2426 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations for the use of restorative justice programs under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2428" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in § 10–226 of this article and this part, before the Board takes any final action under § 9–2426 of this subtitle, it shall give the individual against whom the action is contemplated an opportunity for a hearing before the Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A hearing shall be set within a reasonable time, not exceeding 6 months, after the Board brings charges against a licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall give notice and hold the hearing in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board may administer oaths in connection with any proceeding under this section.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>At least 30 days before the hearing, the hearing notice and a copy of the complaint shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>served personally on the individual; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>mailed to the last known address of the individual.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The individual may be represented at the hearing by counsel.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>If, after due notice, the individual against whom the action is contemplated fails or refuses to appear, the Board may nevertheless hear and decide on the matter.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2429" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations for the reactivation of the license of an individual whose license is suspended under § 9–2426 of this subtitle that require, at a minimum:</text> <level label="1"> <text>that the individual demonstrate compliance with all terms and conditions of the suspension order; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payment of a reactivation fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations for the reinstatement of the license of an individual whose license is revoked under § 9–2426 of this subtitle that require, at a minimum:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a period of time set by the Board during which the individual may not apply for reinstatement; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>payment of a reinstatement fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2430" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided by law, an individual who acquires confidential information in the course of providing sign language interpretation services may not be required to disclose the information in any legal proceeding, trial, or investigation before a governmental unit without the consent of all parties to the sign language interpretation.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An individual providing sign language interpretation services holds the same legal privilege as the individual receiving the sign language interpretation services.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2431" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, an unlicensed individual may not:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide, attempt to provide, or offer to provide sign language interpretation services in the State unless licensed by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>use or attempt to use the license of another individual; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>impersonate another individual who holds a license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An individual may report a violation of subsection (a) of this section to the Board within 180 days after the date of the alleged violation if the individual is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a party to the provision of the sign language interpretation services;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>harmed as a result of the alleged violation; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the guardian of the deaf or hard of hearing individual receiving the sign language interpretation services, if the deaf or hard of hearing individual is a minor or has been appointed a guardian of the person of a disabled person under § 13–705 of the Estates and Trusts Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If the Board finds a violation of subsection (a) of this section, the Board shall provide written notice to the individual specifying the violation found.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board may impose a fine not to exceed $500 for each violation.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In determining the amount of the fine imposed under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Board shall consider the severity of the violation and whether the violation constitutes a pattern of improper conduct.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2432" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>Unless authorized under this part to provide sign language interpretation services, an individual may not represent to the public, by use of a title, by description of services, methods, or procedures, or otherwise, that the individual is authorized to provide sign language interpretation services in the State.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2433" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <level label="a"> <text>A person who receives sign language interpretation services or is a witness to sign language interpretation services from an unlicensed individual in violation of this part may bring an action in a court of competent jurisdiction seeking an injunction to prohibit the individual from providing sign language interpretation services.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In a judicial proceeding under subsection (a) of this section, it is not necessary to show that the person was individually injured by the violation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the court finds that an individual has violated this subtitle, the court shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>enjoin the individual from providing sign language interpretation services until the violation is corrected; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>report the finding to the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An individual who is found by the court to have violated this part is jointly and severally liable to the individual who brought the action for an amount not exceeding $1,000 per incident and all attorney’s fees and court costs.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2434" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>An individual who violates any provision of this part is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for a first offense, a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 90 days, or both; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for each subsequent violation, a fine not less than $500 and not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 90 days, or both.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2435" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="24" subtitle_name="Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing"> <text>Subject to the evaluation and reestablishment provisions of the Maryland Program Evaluation Act, Part III of this subtitle and all regulations adopted under this part shall terminate and be of no effect after July 1, 2033.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2601" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Board” means the Board of Directors of the Maryland African American Museum Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Corporation” means the Maryland African American Museum Corporation.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2602" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Maryland African American Museum Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The purpose of the Corporation is to plan, develop, and manage a Maryland museum of African American history and culture in Baltimore City, in cooperation with and with the active support of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, affected State units, and other public and private institutions.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Corporation may carry out its corporate purposes without the consent of any unit of State government.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Corporation is:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a body politic and corporate;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a public instrumentality of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>an independent unit in the Executive Branch of State government.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The exercise by the Corporation of the powers conferred by this subtitle is an essential public function.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2603" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Board of Directors of the Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board shall manage the affairs of the Corporation and shall exercise all of its corporate powers.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall consist of 25 members, as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Mayor of Baltimore, serving ex officio, or the Mayor’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one member appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one member appointed by the Speaker of the House; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the following members appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one representative of Morgan State University, approved by the Board of Regents of the University;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one member approved by the Commission on African American History and Culture to provide continuing coordination and cooperation between the Corporation and the Commission and to ensure consistency with the statewide programs and mandates of the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>one representative of African American historical or cultural institutions in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>nineteen members who have expertise in African American history, culture, museums, or related areas, expertise in fund–raising, or represent the diversity of communities throughout the State that can benefit from the activities of the Corporation.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the members appointed to the Board shall represent the geographic makeup of the State and shall be racially and ethnically diverse.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Governor may appoint to the Board up to five members from outside the State if necessary to ensure that the membership of the Board satisfies the requirements specified in paragraph (1)(iv)4 of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A member of the Board:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is not entitled to compensation as a member of the Board; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses in accordance with the Standard State Travel Regulations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member of the Board is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Before taking office, each appointee to the Board shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on October 1, 2004.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>From among its members, the Board shall elect a chairman, a vice chairman, and a treasurer.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A majority of the members then serving on the Board is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A vacancy in the membership of the Board does not impair the right of a quorum of the Board to exercise the rights and perform the duties of the Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Board shall appoint an executive committee and may appoint other committees that the Board considers necessary or desirable.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2604" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall appoint an Executive Director who serves at the pleasure of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board shall determine the salary of the Executive Director.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Executive Director is the chief administrative officer of the Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Executive Director shall direct and supervise the administrative affairs and technical activities of the Corporation in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Executive Director or the Executive Director’s designee shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>attend each meeting of the Board, act as secretary to the Board, and keep minutes of Board proceedings;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>approve each salary, per diem payment, or other expense of the Corporation, its employees, and consultants; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>perform other duties as directed by the Board in carrying out the purposes of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>In addition to the Executive Director, the Board shall employ professional and clerical staff necessary to carry out the purposes of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Board shall establish compensation, holidays, and leave for the staff.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The officers and employees of the Corporation are not subject to the provisions of Division I of the State Personnel and Pensions Article that govern the State Personnel Management System.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Attorney General shall provide legal counsel to the Corporation and legal services to the museum.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Board may contract with any agent or consultant it considers necessary to carry out the purposes of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2605" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <text>The Corporation may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>adopt an official seal;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>sue and be sued, plead and be impleaded, in its own name;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>maintain offices in the State;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>appoint museum advisory boards and other advisory boards and committees;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>adopt bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>apply for and accept grants, loans, or assistance of any character from the federal government, State government, a local government, or a private source;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>enter into any contract or other legal instrument;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>acquire, construct, develop, manage, market, reconstruct, rehabilitate, improve, maintain, equip, lease as lessor or as lessee, repair, or operate any project in the State;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>acquire, purchase, hold, lease as lessee, or use a franchise, patent, or license or any real, personal, mixed, tangible, or intangible property or any interest in that property, necessary or convenient for carrying out the purposes of the Corporation;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>sell, lease as lessor, transfer, or dispose of its property or interests in property;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>acquire, either directly or by or through any person, State unit, or political subdivision, by purchase or by gift or devise, any land, structure, real property, personal property, right, right-of-way, franchise, easement, or other interest in land, including land lying under water and riparian rights that the Corporation considers necessary or convenient for the construction, improvement, rehabilitation, or operation of a project, on any terms and at any price that the Corporation considers reasonable;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>enter with the permission of the owner on land, water, or premises for the purpose of making surveys, soundings, borings, and examinations to accomplish any purpose authorized by this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>fix, revise, and collect rates, rentals, fees, and charges for the use of, or for services and facilities provided or made available by, the Corporation;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <level label="i"> <text>borrow money from any source for any corporate purpose, including working capital for its operations, reserves, or interest;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>mortgage, pledge, or otherwise encumber the property and money of the Corporation; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>contract with or engage the services of any person for any financing;</text> </level> </level> <level label="15"> <text>exercise all the corporate powers granted to Maryland corporations under the Maryland General Corporation Law; and</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>do all things necessary and convenient to carry out the powers granted by this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2606" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <text>The Corporation shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>prepare a strategic plan at least once every 5 years that establishes short-range and long-range goals, objectives, and priorities for the museum in support of its mission;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>report annually to the Governor and, subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on the Corporation’s activities during the preceding year, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the number of students and other types of visitors served;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the number of volunteers and total hours contributed to the operation of the museum;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the amount and type of private and nonstate money donated, pledged, or otherwise provided; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any recommendations or requests the Corporation considers appropriate to further the mission of the museum; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>publish reports and any other material it considers necessary.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2607" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <text>Except for the net earnings of the Corporation necessary to pay debt service or implement the Corporation’s museum plan, the net earnings of the Corporation shall inure to the benefit of the State and not to any person.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2608" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Corporation is not required to pay taxes or assessments on its:</text> <level label="1"> <text>properties;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>activities; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>revenue derived from its properties or activities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If the Corporation sells or leases land or facilities to a private entity, the land or facilities shall be subject to real property taxes.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2609" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board shall prepare and implement an operating and a capital budget for the management of its affairs.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Governor may include a grant to the Corporation in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Corporation shall support all operating costs, including personnel and retirement costs, from any General Fund allocations, and its other income sources.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>This section does not restrict the budgetary power of the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2610" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Corporation may provide for the creation, continuation, and administration of the funds that it requires.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>As the Board directs, money in the funds and other money of the Corporation shall be deposited in a federal or State chartered depository institution that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>has a branch or office in the State that accepts deposits; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>has a total paid-in capital plus surplus of at least $6,000,000.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A federal or State chartered trust company may be designated as a depository to receive securities that the Corporation has or owns.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Money that the State appropriates to the Corporation, and money that the Corporation is required by the General Assembly to raise for museum construction from sources other than the State, shall be invested in bonds or other obligations:</text> <level label="1"> <text>of the United States, the State, a political subdivision of the State, or a unit of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>that are guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States, the State, a political subdivision of the State, or a unit of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Corporation shall adopt a system of financial accounting, controls, audits, and reports.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The fiscal year of the Corporation is July 1 to June 30.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Corporation shall select an independent certified public accountant to conduct an audit under this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The accountant:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall be licensed to practice in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>shall be experienced and qualified in the accounting and auditing of public bodies; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>may not have a personal interest either directly or indirectly in the fiscal affairs of the Corporation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>As soon as practicable after the end of the fiscal year, the accountant shall audit the financial books, records, and accounts of the Corporation.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The accountant shall report:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the results of its audit, including an unqualified opinion on the financial position of the Corporation’s funds; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the results of the Corporation’s financial operations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If the accountant is unable to express an unqualified opinion, the accountant shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>state and explain in detail the reason for any qualifications, disclaimers, or opinions; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>submit recommendations on changes needed to allow an unqualified opinion in the future.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The books, records, and accounts of the Corporation are subject to audit by the State.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Within the first 90 days of each fiscal year, the Corporation shall submit a report to the Governor and, subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The report shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a complete operating and financial statement covering the Corporation’s operations during the preceding fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a summary of the Corporation’s activities during the preceding fiscal year.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2611" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>All debts, claims, obligations, and liabilities of the Corporation, whenever incurred, shall be the debts, claims, obligations, and liabilities of the Corporation only and not of the State, other units of State government, other State instrumentalities, State officers, or State employees.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The debts, claims, obligations, and liabilities of the Corporation may not be considered a debt, claim, obligation, or liability of the State or a pledge of its full faith and credit.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2612" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Corporation is exempt from:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Title 3 of the General Provisions Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Title 2, Subtitles 2, 4, and 6 and § 2–510 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Title 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Title 4, Subtitles 2 through 7 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Title 6, Subtitle 1 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Title 7, Subtitles 1 through 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>Title 8, Subtitle 1 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Division II of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Corporation and its officers and employees are subject to the Maryland Public Ethics Law and the State minority business enterprise laws, except as otherwise provided in this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Before approving the final plans for the museum, the Corporation shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>submit preliminary plans to the City of Baltimore for review; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>consider comments from the City of Baltimore on the preliminary plans.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2613" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <text>This subtitle shall be liberally construed to effect its purposes.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2614" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="26" subtitle_name="Maryland African American Museum Corporation"> <text>This subtitle may be cited as the Maryland African American Museum Corporation Act.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2701" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="27" subtitle_name="Maryland Youth Advisory Council"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Council” means the Maryland Youth Advisory Council.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Council year” means the 12–month period beginning September 1 and ending August 31.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“High school student” means a youth who is enrolled in high school, who is a home school student, or who is enrolled in a program that leads to a high school diploma or certificate of attendance or a general equivalency diploma.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>“Institution of postsecondary education” has the meaning stated in § 10–101 of the Education Article.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>“Public senior higher education institution” has the meaning stated in § 10–101 of the Education Article.</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>“Youth” means an individual who is 14 to 22 years old.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Maryland Youth Advisory Council.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Council consists of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>four youths appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>four youths appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>four youths appointed by the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the following members appointed by the Governor’s Office for Children:</text> <level label="1"> <text>four youths nominated by the local management boards established under § 8–301 of the Human Services Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>four youths nominated by the Maryland Association of Student Councils;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>two youths nominated by the University System of Maryland Student Council;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the following youths nominated by the Student Advisory Council to the Maryland Higher Education Commission:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>one youth who is enrolled in a community college; and</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>one youth who is enrolled in a private college or university; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>one youth who has an immediate family member who is a service member.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The members of the Council must be residents of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In deciding which youths to appoint or nominate:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House shall, to the extent practicable, consider:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the geographic and demographic diversity of the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>diversity in education, including nontraditional settings such as vocational and tech–oriented education;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>youths with disabilities; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>youths who are involved in established public and private youth councils and youth empowerment organizations in the State, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>service learning and leadership programs;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>teen court programs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>foster care;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>student councils;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>juvenile service programs; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>transitional programs;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Governor and local management boards shall, to the extent practicable, consider:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the geographic and demographic diversity of the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>diversity in education, including nontraditional settings such as vocational and tech–oriented education;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>youths with disabilities;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>transitional youths who are not in high school or an institution of postsecondary education and not likely to attend an institution of postsecondary education; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>youths who are involved in established public and private youth councils and youth empowerment organizations in the State, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>service learning and leadership programs;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>teen court programs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>foster care;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>student councils;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>juvenile service programs; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>transitional programs; and</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Maryland Association of Student Councils shall consider youths who are enrolled in schools represented by the Association as well as applicants who are enrolled in schools that are not represented by the Association.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member of the Council is 2 Council years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member may not serve more than one term.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If a member represents an established public or private youth council or youth empowerment organization in the State, the member shall represent the views of the council or organization before the Council.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>At the first meeting of each Council year, the members shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>elect a chair for a term of 1 year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>select an executive board that consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>two members who were appointed by the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>two members who were appointed by the Governor or nominated by the local management boards;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>one member who was nominated by the Maryland Association of Student Councils; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>one member who was nominated by the University System of Maryland Student Council or the Maryland Higher Education Commission Student Advisory Council.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Council may appoint any officers that it considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Governor’s Office for Children shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide staff support for the Council;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>develop, in consultation with the Council, an initial application and application process;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>work with established public or private youth councils or youth empowerment organizations in the State to select representatives to apply to become a member of the Council;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>ensure that members of the Council provide a broad representation of all jurisdictions and populations;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>organize at least four Council meetings per Council year;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>assist the Council in preparing recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>appoint members of the Council from lists of nominations provided by the persons making the nominations specified in subsection (c)(1)(iv) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Council shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>inform the Governor and the General Assembly of issues concerning youth, including offering testimony on these issues before legislative bodies;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>examine issues of importance to youth, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>education;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a safe learning environment;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>employment opportunities;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>strategies to increase youth participation in local and State government;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>health care access and quality of care;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>substance abuse and underage drinking;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>emotional and physical well–being;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>the environment;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>poverty;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>homelessness;</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>youth access to State and local services;</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>suicide prevention; and</text> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>educational accessibility issues for students with disabilities, including access to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>schools;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>school–related activities; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>classes;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>recommend one legislative proposal each legislative session concerning an issue included in item (2) of this subsection for possible introduction;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>conduct a public awareness campaign to raise awareness about the Council among Maryland youth;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>participate in local youth activities or organizations;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>advise local officials and community leaders on youth issues; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>collect information from other youth groups in order to inform the activities of the Council.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>The Council shall work with the State Department of Education regarding the granting of school credit for Council service.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Department of Education and the Maryland Higher Education Commission shall notify the head administrators of all State high schools and of all institutions of postsecondary education, respectively, of the creation of the Council so that the administrators may inform their students.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The State Department of Education shall allow up to four absences of a member from school per school year to be categorized as lawful absences if the absences were due to the business of the Council.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>The Council shall set priorities and determine:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the function of subcommittees;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>standards of conduct;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>procedures; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the use of technology to convene or conduct meetings or facilitate communications among members.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Council shall review and consider whether the procedures and rules used by the General Assembly would be appropriate for use as models for the Council.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <text>The Council shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meet at least four times each Council year and conduct one or two public hearings each Council year on issues of importance to youth;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>conduct one educational meeting each Council year concerning the legislative process, to which the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services, or their designees, shall be invited to speak; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>open all meetings to the public.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>A member of the Council:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Council; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="m"> <text>On or before the last day of the Council year, the Council shall report its activities to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2801" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="28" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Eligible neighborhood” means a neighborhood that includes census tracts with more than 30% of children living in poverty and is served by, as defined by the Office, a community school with a concentration of poverty level, as defined in § 5–223 of the Education Article, of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in fiscal year 2025 and 2026, at least 80%;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>in fiscal year 2027 through fiscal year 2029, at least 75%;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>in fiscal year 2030, at least 60%; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>in fiscal year 2031, and each fiscal year thereafter, at least 55%.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Fund” means the ENOUGH Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Office” means the Governor’s Office for Children.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Program” means the Engaging Neighborhoods, Organizations, Unions, Governments, and Households (ENOUGH) Grant Program.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Special Secretary” means the Special Secretary of the Governor’s Office for Children.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2802" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="28" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Governor’s Office for Children.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The head of the Office is the Special Secretary of the Governor’s Office for Children.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2803" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="28" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to the requirements of this section, the Special Secretary shall establish an ENOUGH grant program designed to advance place–based strategies targeting child poverty.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of ENOUGH grants made by the Office under this section is to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>increase community health and safety;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide “cradle to career” access to high–quality education and care;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>connect residents to quality jobs and in–demand occupations;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>enable family–sustaining income and access to affordable high–quality housing, child care, and health care, including reproductive, maternal, behavioral, and mental health care;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>provide high–quality support for children with disabilities, child welfare, and justice–involved youth and young adults;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>connect individuals to State programs; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>leverage federal, local, and private funding for the eligible neighborhood.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall annually identify and communicate to each local government eligible neighborhoods for the Program.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Office may determine that because of the close proximity of eligible neighborhoods and their similarities in residents and needs that a regional neighborhood would maximize resources for the neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A regional neighborhood may not receive less funding under the Program because of the coordination of multiple eligible neighborhoods.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Once the Office identifies an eligible neighborhood for the Program, the Office shall engage with the neighborhood community, seek input from residents, and approve a lead partner for the neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A lead partner may be a:</text> <level label="i"> <text>local management board;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>local governmental entity;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>community action agency;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>local community organization; or</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>nonprofit organization.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Office shall establish qualifications, standards, and processes for determining the lead partner for the neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The Office may assign staff or provide technical assistance to assist the neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The lead partner shall coordinate all aspects of the Program for the neighborhood and any other responsibilities defined by the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to the availability of funds, each lead partner shall receive a grant from the Office, in an amount determined by the Office, to complete a needs assessment for the eligible neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Each needs assessment shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an assessment of the physical, behavioral, mental health, education, housing, economic, and safety needs of the community;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an immediate plan to achieve the purpose of the Program, if applicable to the eligible neighborhood;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a long–term plan, including goals, for the eligible neighborhood;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>a description of where State funding is being requested to be spent in the eligible neighborhood; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>any additional standards required by the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>The Office shall establish the standards and policies for developing a needs assessment for each eligible neighborhood, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>opportunity for engagement and input by members of the eligible neighborhood’s community;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>local management board input and assistance; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>deadlines and review processes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>The needs assessment shall supplement and not conflict with the needs assessment completed for the community school served by the eligible neighborhood.</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>In completing the needs assessment, the lead partner shall coordinate with the local community school, a community based organization, and the local government.</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>In completing the needs assessment, the lead partner may coordinate with:</text> <level label="1"> <text>local community organizations;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>union or worker organizations;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>anchor institutions, including local health care organizations, institutions of higher education, workforce investment boards, or local care management teams;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>local law enforcement agencies; or</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>faith–based organizations.</text> </level> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>If an eligible neighborhood has completed a recent assessment similar to the needs assessment required under this section, the Office may require the eligible neighborhood to only submit an abbreviated needs assessment that addresses the requirements of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>At the request of the lead partner, the Office may assist the lead partner to complete a needs assessment.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The lead partner shall submit the needs assessment to the Office for approval.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If approved, and subject to the availability of funds, the Office shall provide a neighborhood implementation grant, in an amount determined by the Office, to the lead partner who has met standards established by the Office, to complete the items in the eligible neighborhood’s needs assessment.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Office may consult with entities that it deems relevant to support ENOUGH partnerships.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2804" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="28" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office may apply for, receive, and spend grants–in–aid by the federal government or any of its agencies, the private sector, or any other funds made available to the Office for use in carrying out the powers and duties of the Special Secretary or the Office.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Beginning in fiscal year 2025 and in each fiscal year thereafter, the Office shall prepare an annual report of the ENOUGH grant program that includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>accounting of financial receipts and expenditures; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>progress and outcome metrics as defined by the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before June 1, 2027, the Office shall conduct an evaluation of the ENOUGH grant program and report its findings to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment, the House Appropriations Committee, and Health and Government Operations Committee, and the Joint Committee on Children, Youth, and Families.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The report made under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include an analysis of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the progress made in jurisdictions receiving ENOUGH grants based on the outcome metrics produced by the grant recipients;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the impact of program activities with respect to reducing the number of children living in poverty; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>policy changes enacted at the State and local level designed to enable better coordination and efficacy.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2805" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="28" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an ENOUGH Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to support ENOUGH grants made by the Office under § 9–2803 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Special Secretary shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>interest earnings; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Fund may be used only for ENOUGH grants made under § 9–2803 of this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>For fiscal year 2026, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $15,000,000 to the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>An appropriation made under subsection (i) of this section is supplemental to and not intended to take the place of any federal funding received for place–based support.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-2901" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="29" subtitle_name="Maryland Cybersecurity Council"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Council” means the Maryland Cybersecurity Council.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Executive Order” means Executive Order 13636 of the President of the United States.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Maryland Cybersecurity Council.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Council consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Information Technology, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of State Police, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Adjutant General, or the Adjutant General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the State Administrator of Elections, or the State Administrator’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Director of the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Secretary of Emergency Management, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the People’s Counsel, or the designee of the People’s Counsel;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, or the Chief Executive Officer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Chair of the Tech Council of Maryland, or the Chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>the President of the Fort Meade Alliance, or the President’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the President of the Army Alliance, or the President’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>four representatives of cybersecurity companies located in the State, with at least three representing cybersecurity companies with 50 or fewer employees, designated by the Cybersecurity Association of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>the Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, or the Chief Executive Officer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="17"> <text>the Executive Director of the Cybersecurity Association of Maryland, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="18"> <text>nine representatives from institutions of higher education located in the State with expertise in cybersecurity, with at least four representatives with expertise in artificial intelligence and quantum computing, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the President, or the President’s designee, of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Bowie State University;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Johns Hopkins University;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Morgan State University;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Dean of the University of Maryland Global Campus School of Cybersecurity and Information Technology, or the Dean’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>two additional representatives designated by the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland;</text> </level> </level> <level label="19"> <text>the Director of CASH Campaign of Maryland, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="20"> <text>the Executive Director of Economic Action Maryland, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="21"> <text>one bank chief information security officer, designated by the Maryland Bankers Association;</text> </level> <level label="22"> <text>one hospital chief information security officer, designated by the Maryland Hospital Association;</text> </level> <level label="23"> <text>one water systems chief information security officer who works for a water system located in the State, designated by the National Association of Water Companies;</text> </level> <level label="24"> <text>one electric company chief information security officer who works in the State for an electric company serving customers in the State, designated by the Edison Electric Institute;</text> </level> <level label="25"> <text>the Executive Director of The Electronic Privacy Information Center, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="26"> <text>the Executive Director of the Center for Democracy and Technology, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="27"> <text>the Chief Executive Officer of the Technology Advancement Center, or the Chief Executive Officer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="28"> <text>the Director of the Center for Governance of Technology and Systems, or the Director’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="29"> <text>any other stakeholder that the chair determines appropriate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The President of the Senate may appoint up to two members of the Senate to serve on the Council.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Speaker of the House of Delegates may appoint up to two members of the House to serve on the Council.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The chair also shall invite, as appropriate, the following representatives of federal agencies to serve on the Council:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Director of the National Security Agency, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Homeland Security, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Director of the National Institute for Science and Technology, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Director of the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity, or the Director’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>any other federal agency that the chair determines appropriate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, beginning October 1, 2025, and every 2 years thereafter, the Council shall elect a chair and vice chair from among the members of the Council.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>One shall be a State employee and one shall be a non–State employee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The University of Maryland Global Campus shall provide staff for the Council.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>A member of the Council:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Council; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <text>The Council shall work with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and other federal agencies, private sector businesses, nonprofits, and private cybersecurity experts to assess and address cybersecurity threats and associated risks from artificial intelligence and quantum computing to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for critical infrastructure, review and conduct risk assessments to determine which local infrastructure sectors are at the greatest risk of cyber attacks and need the most enhanced cybersecurity measures;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>use federal guidance to identify categories of critical infrastructure as critical cyber infrastructure if cyber damage or unauthorized cyber access to the infrastructure could reasonably result in catastrophic consequences, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>interruption in the provision of energy, water, transportation, emergency services, food, or other life–sustaining services sufficient to cause a mass casualty event or mass evacuations;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>catastrophic economic damage; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>severe degradation of State or national security;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>assist infrastructure entities that are not covered by the Executive Order in complying with federal cybersecurity guidance;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>assist private sector cybersecurity businesses in adopting, adapting, and implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology cybersecurity framework of standards and practices;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>examine inconsistencies between State and federal laws regarding cybersecurity;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>recommend a comprehensive State strategic plan to ensure a coordinated and adaptable response to and recovery from cybersecurity attacks;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>address sensitive privacy interests of State residents related to cybersecurity and associated risks;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>address emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>adversarial artificial intelligence;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>cyber attacks;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>deepfake technologies;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>unethical use; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>fraud; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="9"> <text>recommend any legislative changes considered necessary by the Council to address cybersecurity issues.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <text>Beginning July 1, 2017, and every 2 years thereafter, the Council shall submit a report of its activities to the General Assembly in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3101" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="31" subtitle_name="Commerce Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Commerce.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Subcabinet” means the Commerce Subcabinet.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3102" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="31" subtitle_name="Commerce Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Commerce Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Subcabinet is composed of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Secretary, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of the Environment, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of Planning, or the Secretary’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Special Secretary of Minority Affairs, or the Special Secretary’s designee.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3103" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="31" subtitle_name="Commerce Subcabinet"> <text>The Subcabinet shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Governor on proposals to enhance the State’s business climate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>gather information the Subcabinet considers necessary to promote the goals of the Subcabinet;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>collaborate to facilitate and expedite critical economic development projects in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>provide other assistance that may be required to further the goals of the Subcabinet and enhance the State’s business climate.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3104" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="31" subtitle_name="Commerce Subcabinet"> <level label="a"> <text>The Secretary shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>chair the Subcabinet;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>convene the meetings of the Subcabinet; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>be responsible for the oversight, direction, and accountability of the work of the Subcabinet.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Office of the Secretary of Commerce shall provide the primary staff support for the Subcabinet.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Subcabinet shall meet each month.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3201" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Board” means the Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Executive Director” means the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Fund” means the Performance Incentive Grant Fund established in § 9–3209 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3202" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <text>There is a Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board in the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3203" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Executive Director, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the chair of the Maryland Parole Commission, or the chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of State Police, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Public Defender, or the Public Defender’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Secretary of Budget and Management, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the chair of the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission, or the chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>two members appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>one member appointed by the Maryland Chiefs and Sheriffs Association;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the president of the Maryland State’s Attorneys’ Association or the president’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>two members of the Maryland Correctional Administrators Association, appointed by the president of the Maryland Correctional Administrators Association, including one representative from a large correctional facility and one representative from a small correctional facility;</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>the president of the Maryland Association of Counties or the president’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="17"> <text>the following individuals, appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one member representing victims of crime;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one member representing law enforcement;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>two local health officers; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one member with direct experience teaching incarcerated individuals in academic programs intended to achieve the goal of a high school diploma or general educational development certification.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>To the extent practicable, in making appointments under this section, the Governor shall ensure geographic diversity among the membership of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member of the Board is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members of the Board are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on October 1, 2016.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, an appointed member:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is eligible for reappointment; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed or reappointed after a term has begun serves only for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The members of the Board appointed from the Senate of Maryland, the House of Delegates, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland, shall serve in an advisory capacity only.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3204" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the chair of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>With the approval of the Board, the chair may appoint a vice chair who shall have the duties assigned by the chair.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3205" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>A majority of the authorized membership of the Board is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall meet at least quarterly each year at the times and places determined by the Board or the chair of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A member of the Board:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation for service on the Board; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3206" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall provide staff for the Board.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3207" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>The Board shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>monitor progress and compliance with the implementation of the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>consider the recommendations of the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission and any legislation, regulations, rules, budgetary changes, or other actions taken to implement the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>make additional legislative and budgetary recommendations for future data–driven, fiscally sound criminal justice policy changes;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>collect and analyze the data submitted under § 9–3208 of this subtitle regarding pretrial detainees;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>in collaboration with the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the Maryland Parole Commission, the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Maryland State Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy, create performance measures to track and assess the outcomes of the laws related to the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>in collaboration with the Maryland Parole Commission, monitor administrative release under § 7–301.1 of the Correctional Services Article and determine whether to adjust eligibility considering the effectiveness of administrative release and evidence–based practices;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>create performance measures to assess the effectiveness of the grants administered under § 9–3209 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>consult and coordinate with:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>other units of the State and local jurisdictions concerning justice reinvestment issues.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In collaboration with the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the Board shall determine the annual savings from the implementation of the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council based on the difference between the prison population as measured on October 1, 2017, the baseline day, and the prison population as measured on October 1, 2018, the comparison day, and the variable cost of incarceration.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the prison population on the comparison day is less than the prison population on the baseline day, the Board shall determine a savings based on the difference in the prison population multiplied by the variable cost.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Board annually shall determine the difference between the prison population on October 1, 2017, and the prison population on October 1 of the current year and calculate any savings in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If a prison population decline causes a correctional unit, wing, or facility to close, the Board shall conduct an assessment to determine the savings from the closure and distribute the savings, realized annually, according to the schedule in paragraph (5) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Board annually shall recommend that the savings identified in paragraphs (2) through (4) of this subsection be distributed as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>up to 50% of the savings shall be placed in the Performance Incentive Grant Fund for purposes established under § 9–3209(b)(1) of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>subject to paragraph (6) of this subsection, the remaining savings shall be used for additional services identified as reinvestment priorities in the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council’s Final Report.</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>The Board may recommend that a portion of the remaining savings identified under paragraph (5)(ii) of this subsection be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>used for the development and implementation of a post–secondary education and workforce training program for each correctional institution in the Division of Correction that provides incarcerated individuals with the requisite training, certifications, and experience to obtain careers in in–demand job sectors;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for fiscal year 2025 only, distributed to the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>distributed to the Maryland Parole Commission for the purpose of hiring psychologists to perform risk assessments of candidates for geriatric parole under § 7–310 of the Correctional Services Article.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>At each meeting of the Board, the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee, shall report to the Board:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of individuals committed to the Maryland Department of Health for treatment under § 8–507 of the Health – General Article in the previous 3 months including the number of days that it took to place each individual into treatment and where the individual was placed for treatment;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the number of individuals committed to the Maryland Department of Health for treatment under § 8–507 of the Health – General Article who are waiting for treatment but cannot be placed due to lack of capacity; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the number of individuals assessed for substance use disorder in the previous 3 months under § 5–601 of the Criminal Law Article and whether each individual was placed into treatment as a result of the assessment.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board may enter into an agreement with an academic institution or another similar entity that is qualified to collect and interpret data in order to assist the Board with its duties.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Board may recommend that a unit of the State enter into a contract or agreement with a public or private entity to obtain assistance or financial resources to fund and otherwise further the purposes of this subtitle, including entering into public–private partnerships, social impact bonds, and opportunity compacts.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If the Board makes a recommendation under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the Board shall provide written notice to the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, the House Judiciary Committee, and the House Health and Government Operations Committee, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, of the recommendation.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>A unit of the State may not enter into a contract or an agreement recommended by the Board under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph until 60 days after the date of the notice provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall establish an advisory board for the purpose of including stakeholders in the criminal justice system in the analysis of the implementation of justice reinvestment initiatives.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall appoint members of the advisory board, subject to the approval of the chair of the Board.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Members of the advisory board shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a representative of the exclusive representative of the employees of the Division of Parole and Probation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a representative of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a representative of CASA de Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a representative of the American Civil Liberties Union;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the chair of the Criminal Law and Practice Section of the Maryland State Bar Association or the chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>a representative of victims of domestic violence;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>a representative of victims of sexual assault;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>a representative with clinical experience and expertise in behavioral health and criminal justice;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>a representative of the Maryland Retailers Association;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>a representative of an organization whose mission is to develop and advocate for policies and programs to increase the skills, job opportunities, and incomes of low–skill, low–income workers and job seekers;</text> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>a representative of an organization whose mission is to advocate for ex–offenders; and</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>a representative of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3208" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>Semiannually, each county, the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the Maryland Parole Commission, the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Maryland State Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy shall collect and report data to the Board that is disaggregated by race and ethnicity in order for the Board to perform its duties under § 9–3207 of this subtitle, including data relating to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the admission of incarcerated individuals to State and local correctional facilities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the length of incarcerated individual sentences;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the length of time being served by incarcerated individuals, including suspended periods of a criminal sentence;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>recidivism;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the population of community supervision;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>information about the incarcerated individual population, including the amount of restitution ordered and the amount paid; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>departures by the court and the Commission from the sentencing limits for technical violations under §§ 6–223 and 6–224 of the Criminal Procedure Article and §§ 7–401 and 7–504 of the Correctional Services Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On or before March 31 each year, each county and the Division of Pretrial Detention and Services shall report to the Board the following information for the prior calendar year regarding individuals held in pretrial detention:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of individuals detained pretrial on the same day each year;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the mean and median days individuals were detained in pretrial detention;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the charges under which individuals were detained in pretrial detention;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the reasons why individuals were unable to secure release;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the number of individuals who were released during the pretrial period; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the disposition of each case.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3209" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Performance Incentive Grant Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to make use of the savings from the implementation of the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, and except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, the Board may recommend to the Executive Director that grants be made to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>ensure that the rights of crime victims are protected and enhanced;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>provide for pretrial risk assessments;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>provide for services to reduce pretrial detention;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>provide for diversion programs, including mediation and restorative justice programs;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>provide for recidivism reduction programming;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>provide for evidence–based practices and policies;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>provide for specialty courts;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>provide for reentry programs;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>provide for substance use disorder and community mental health service programs; and</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>provide for any other program or service that will further the purposes established in paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>At least 5% of the grants provided to a county under this section shall be used to fund programs and services to ensure that the rights of crime victims are protected and enhanced.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The grants shall be used to supplement, but not supplant, funds received from other sources.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>For fiscal year 2026 and each fiscal year thereafter, up to $1,000,000 of the Fund may be used each year to support the agency operations of the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall receive from the Fund each fiscal year the amount necessary to offset the costs of administering the Fund, including the costs incurred in an agreement to collect and interpret data as authorized by § 9–3207 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to the authority of the Executive Director, the Board shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Executive Director may approve or disapprove any grants from the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>interest earned on money in the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Fund may be used only for the purposes established in subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Money expended from the Fund for programs to reduce recidivism and control correctional costs is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for these purposes.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3210" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <text>The Board may perform any acts necessary and appropriate to carry out the powers and duties set forth in this subtitle.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3211" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Commission” means the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Board on matters related to legislation, regulations, rules, budgetary changes, and all other actions needed to implement the recommendations of the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council as they relate to local governments;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>make recommendations to the Board regarding grants to local governments from the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>create performance measures to assess the effectiveness of the grants.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of one member from each county appointed by the governing body of the county.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Executive Director shall appoint the chair of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member of the Commission is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the members of the Commission are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 2016.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is eligible for reappointment; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed or reappointed after a term has begun serves only for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3212" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="32" subtitle_name="Justice Reinvestment Oversight Board"> <text>On or before December 31, 2017, and each year thereafter, the Board shall report to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on the activities of the Board and the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3301" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="33" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Immigrant Affairs"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Director” means the Director of the Office.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“ESOL program” means an English For Speakers of Other Languages program.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Immigrant” means an individual who:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is a resident of the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is not a citizen of the United States; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>whose country of origin is a country other than the United States.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Office” means the Governor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3302" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="33" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Immigrant Affairs"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Governor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The head of the Office is the Director.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Director:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is appointed by the Governor;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>serves at the pleasure of the Governor and is responsible directly to the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>advise the Governor on all matters assigned to the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>carry out the Governor’s policies on matters assigned to the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Director shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>manage the operation of the Office and establish guidelines and procedures to promote the orderly and efficient operation of the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>adopt regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Subject to the provisions of this subtitle, the Director may establish, reorganize, or consolidate areas of responsibility in the Office as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities assigned by the Director.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office shall employ staff to carry out its duties as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3303" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="33" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Immigrant Affairs"> <text>Subject to the availability of funding, the Office shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>establish a network of neighborhood–based opportunity centers that provide immigration services to immigrants;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>increase access to ESOL programs, including by engaging nonprofit organizations and other qualified providers of ESOL programs;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>assist immigrants in matters relating to immigration status, including assisting with the naturalization process and applications for deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA);</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>connect immigrants to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>business resources that use the immigrants’ skills;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>employment referral programs; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>other workforce development programs;</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>develop and leverage immigrants’ skills to benefit the immigrants’ communities and the State;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>strengthen the connection between immigrants and the immigrants’ communities through civic engagement;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>reduce exploitation of immigrants;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>establish a toll–free, multilingual hotline and a website for purposes including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>disseminating information about the programs and services offered by the Office;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>referring for services; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>receiving complaints relating to fraud and other related crimes against immigrants;</text> </level> </level> <level label="9"> <text>ensure that individuals referred by the Office are directed to persons who are:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in compliance with Title 14, Subtitle 33 of the Commercial Law Article; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>authorized by the federal Office of Legal Access Programs;</text> </level> </level> <level label="10"> <text>using information developed by the Office through the hotline established under this section, assist law enforcement in combating crimes against immigrants;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>advise the Governor and Director concerning matters affecting immigrants in the State in order to promote and encourage the full participation of immigrants in the State’s civic and economic life;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>coordinate with other State agencies and otherwise use the resources of the State to serve the needs of immigrants; and</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>encourage and assist local governments in the development of activities to enhance civic engagement among immigrants and in immigrant communities.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3304" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="33" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Immigrant Affairs"> <text>On or before June 15, 2022, and each year thereafter, the Director shall submit to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the members of the General Assembly a report describing the activities of the Office, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>summaries of calls and queries received through the hotline and website;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>information on ESOL programs provided by the Office;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the estimated or exact number of immigrants assisted through opportunity centers;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the status of any workforce development programs; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>any other relevant information.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3401" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <text>In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Historic St. Mary’s City Fort to 400 Commission.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3402" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Historic St. Mary’s City Fort to 400 Commission.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of the Commission is to plan, produce, and facilitate materials, events, and activities to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3403" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>two members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>two members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Budget and Management or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Natural Resources or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of Planning or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>one representative of the Historic St. Mary’s City Commission;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Rediscovery 400 initiative; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>five members with relevant interest or expertise, appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>To the extent practicable, the membership of the Commission and any advisory committees established in accordance with § 9–3405 of this subtitle shall be representative of the diverse communities and regions within the State.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor shall designate the Chair of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts shall provide staff for the Commission, assisted by the Maryland Historical Trust and the Maryland State Archives.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>A vacancy on the Commission shall be filled by the Governor.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3404" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>coordinate the planning and implementation of activities and events to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>promote the identification, documentation, and preservation of historical and cultural resources related to the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>assist in protecting, improving, and developing existing educational and interpretive institutions, sites, and museums in promoting the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>ensure development of a model social studies curriculum on the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>promote nationally and internationally the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>ensure that commemorative activities, events, and products provide lasting value and public benefits beyond the celebration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>secure support and financial resources to implement events and activities planned and assisted by the Commission, including the formation of an appropriate legal entity;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>provide leadership for and coordinate economic development opportunities in and around St. Mary’s City to promote the region for future generations; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>perform other actions necessary to carry out the purposes of the Commission.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3405" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>The Chair of the Commission shall establish advisory committees related to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>development and sponsor relations;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>resource stewardship and visitor experience;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>education and curriculum;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>programs and events;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>transportation and capital infrastructure;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>communications and marketing;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>operations and management; and</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>any other aspect of the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland that the Chair considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Chair of the Commission shall appoint advisory committee members who broadly represent public and private interests.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Advisory committee members serve at the pleasure of the Chair of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3406" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall meet at least twice each year at times and places to be determined by the Chair.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall adopt procedures for the transaction of business; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may establish a nonprofit organization to receive funds for the Commission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3407" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2035 PER CHAPTERS 687 AND 688 OF 2021" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="34" subtitle_name="Historic St. Mary's City Fort to 400 Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before September 1, 2022, the Commission shall submit to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly a report containing the Commission’s plan of action for the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Maryland.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On or before November 1, 2022, and each November 1 thereafter, the Commission shall submit to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly a report that includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an update on the plan of action submitted in accordance with subsection (a) of this section;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>implementation timetables and benchmarks; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>recommendations for legislative, administrative, and other actions the Commission deems necessary to further its mission.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3501" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="35" subtitle_name="Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices"> <text>In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3502" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="35" subtitle_name="Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>two members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>two members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Secretary of Juvenile Services;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the following members, appointed by the Governor:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one representative of an institute for public policy that specializes in juvenile justice issues in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one representative of an institute operated by the University of Maryland specializing in providing evidence–based and culturally competent services for juveniles;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>one representative with relevant education and experience;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>one local school superintendent;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>one school principal;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>one representative of an organization that provides services to children involved in the juvenile justice system;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Department of Health;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>one representative of a private child welfare agency;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>one representative of a youth services bureau;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>one representative of the State judiciary;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>one representative of the Maryland State’s Attorneys’ Association;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Office of the Public Defender;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports; and</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>seven members of the general public.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the seven members of the general public:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one shall be chosen on the basis of the member’s interest in and experience with minors and juvenile problems;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>two shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>at the time of the appointment to a first term, be at least 16 years old and under the age of 30 years; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>include at least one individual who has been under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services;</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one shall be an individual who is a parent or guardian of a youth who has been under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one shall be a victim advocate; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>two shall be employees of the Department of Juvenile Services with different job titles, recommended by the President of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Council 3.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member is 3 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on June 1, 2024.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>An appointed member who serves two consecutive full 3–year terms may not be reappointed for 3 years after completion of those terms.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>From among the members of the Commission, the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House shall appoint a chair.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>From among the members of the Commission, the chair shall appoint a secretary.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The secretary shall keep full and accurate minutes of each Commission meeting.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission shall meet regularly at least six times a year on the call of its chair.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>review and report on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>all juvenile services, facilities, and programs in the State;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the educational programs and services of the Department of Juvenile Services;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>programs designed to divert children from the juvenile justice system;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the treatment and programming needs of females in the juvenile justice system;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <level label="1"> <text>the use of child in need of supervision petitions; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the number of child in need of supervision petitions authorized or denied by jurisdiction; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the wait times for placement of children in facilities;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>research culturally competent, evidence–based, research–based, and promising programs and practices relating to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>child welfare;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>juvenile rehabilitation;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>mental health services for children; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>prevention and intervention services for juveniles;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>evaluate the cost–effectiveness of existing and promising programs and practices researched by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>identify means of evaluating the effectiveness of programs and practices researched by the Commission;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>giving special attention to organizations located in or serving historically underserved communities, identify strategies to enable community–based organizations that provide services for juveniles to evaluate and validate services and programming provided by those organizations;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>review data relating to arrests, completion of programming, and recidivism from the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>identify opportunities for greater coordination between the Department of Juvenile Services, the Office of the State’s Attorney, law enforcement, and local organizations that provide services to juveniles;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>recommend policies and programs to improve juvenile services in the State;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>participate in interpreting for the public the objectives of the juvenile services in the State;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>participate in planning the development and use of available resources to meet the needs of juveniles;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>coordinate with the Maryland Department of Labor to identify potential job and apprenticeship opportunities for juveniles under the supervision of the Department of Juvenile Services; and</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>examine and review fatalities involving children under the supervision of the Department of Juvenile Services for the purpose of providing recommendations on policies and programs to prevent fatalities, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a death caused by a child under the supervision of the Department of Juvenile Services, if the child is convicted or adjudicated delinquent for the death; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the death of a child under the supervision of the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>On or before October 1, 2025, and on or before October 1 each year thereafter, the Commission shall report its findings to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3601" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="36" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy"> <text>In this subtitle, “Office” means the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3602" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="36" subtitle_name="Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office shall ensure that all reports issued by the Office related to grant programs include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a summary of all collected performance measure data; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>information necessary to provide transparency in the results of competitive grant awards.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall create, for inclusion in its annual report, a scorecard of quantifiable safety indicators.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office shall determine appropriate indicators for the scorecard in coordination with:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Department of State Police;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Office of the Attorney General;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Maryland Department of Labor;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the State Department of Education;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>the Maryland Department of Health; and</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>the Department of Human Services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In addition to the indicators determined under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the scorecard shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>crime statistics for violent crime and property crime as reported in the Uniform Crime Reports or the National Incident–Based Reporting System, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>murder;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>rape;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>robbery;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>aggravated assault;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>breaking or entering;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>larceny or theft; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>motor vehicle theft;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>crime clearance rates for the crimes included under item (i) of this paragraph;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the portion of committed crimes not reported to law enforcement as estimated based on the National Crime Victimization Survey or other sources;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>indicators of safety and fairness in the criminal justice system in the State, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of serious assaults on staff and incarcerated individuals committed in State correctional facilities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>police use of force statistics;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the number of law enforcement personnel killed in the line of duty;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>disparity in traffic stops, arrests, convictions, and sentencing by race and ethnicity; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>available surveys of public trust in policing and the criminal justice system in the State; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="v"> <text>indicators of the underlying factors and conditions affecting progress toward a safer State, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>unemployment rates by age, gender, race, ethnicity, and region;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>school dropout rates;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>population density and degree of urbanization;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>percentage of residents below the federal poverty threshold;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>median household income; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>access to mental health, behavioral health, and addiction treatment.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>On or before October 1, 2027, and each October 1 thereafter, the Office shall report to the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the total number of youth housed in facilities with adult offenders on a monthly basis;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the average length of stay of youth housed in facilities with adult offenders;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the total number of youth charged as adults under § 3–8A–03(d)(3) of the Courts Article and the offenses with which those youth are charged;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the total number of youth held in restrictive housing in facilities with adult offenders; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the total number of violations of the provisions of Title 34 of the United States Code prohibiting youth from having sight and sound contact with adult offenders.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3701" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <text>In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Commission on African American History and Culture.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3702" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Commission on African American History and Culture.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission is an independent unit in the Executive Branch of State government.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3703" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission consists of 21 members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The members shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>represent the entire community of the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>know about African American culture and history;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>be sensitive to the problems of minority communities; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>be connected with agencies working to integrate minority history and culture into the history of the State and American culture.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 2005, and October 1, 2011.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a member may be reappointed.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A member who has served two consecutive four–year terms may not be reappointed until at least one year has elapsed after the end of the previous term.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Governor may remove a member for incompetence or misconduct.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3704" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <text>The Commission shall elect annually a chair and vice chair from among its members.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3705" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall meet at the call of the chair, a majority of the members, or the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to receive reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3706" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>With the approval of the Governor, the Commission shall appoint a director.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The director may not be a member of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The director serves at the pleasure of the Commission, subject to the concurrence of the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The director is a special appointment in the State Personnel Management System.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Subject to the rules and policies adopted by the Commission, the director shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>administer the activities of the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>supervise the appointment and removal of Commission personnel.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3707" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>initiate, direct, and coordinate projects that further the understanding of African American history and culture;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>receive and administer any available federal, State, or private money to plan and execute projects or educational activities that further the understanding of African American history and culture;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>operate the Banneker–Douglass–Tubman Museum in Annapolis to house and display photographs, objects, oral history tapes, artifacts, and other materials of African American historic and cultural significance;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>locate, preserve, and disseminate to the public information about significant buildings and sites relating to African American history and culture; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>publish an annual report and any other material that the Commission considers necessary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission may provide operational funding to a museum that specializes in African American history and culture.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3708" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="37" subtitle_name="Commission on African American History and Culture"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Commission may seek money from the federal government, foundations, and private sources in addition to State financing.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may accept gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or endowments for any of its purposes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Money received under subsection (a) of this section, income from the operation of the Banneker–Douglass–Tubman Museum, and money from educational materials and activities of the Commission are not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>For each fiscal year, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $1,600,000 for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Money maintained under this section is subject to audit by the State, including the Legislative Auditor.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3801" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="38" subtitle_name="Governor's Office for Children"> <text>There is a Governor’s Office for Children, as authorized under Executive Order 01.01.2024.05.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3901" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="39" subtitle_name="Government Efficiency Commission"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commission” means the Government Efficiency Commission.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Department” has the meaning stated in § 8–506 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Independent unit” has the meaning stated in § 8–506 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-3902" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="39" subtitle_name="Government Efficiency Commission"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a Government Efficiency Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The purpose of the Commission is to enhance government efficiency and economic competitiveness by monitoring efficiency in the processing of permits, licenses, and certificates.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one member of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Planning, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of the Environment, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Special Secretary of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, or the Special Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Secretary of Information Technology, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Chief Performance Officer; and</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>three representatives of the State’s business community, appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor shall designate the chair of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office of the Governor shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>compile and index the reports submitted under § 8–506 of this article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>review statutory and regulatory provisions that may impact the efficiency of processing permits, licenses, and certificates; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>make recommendations on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>any factors impeding prompt and fair processing of permits, licenses, and certificates;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>strategies for how departments and independent units can improve permitting and licensing efficiency; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>removing barriers that hinder individuals and businesses from receiving permits, licenses, and certificates.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>On or before December 1, 2024, and each year thereafter, the Commission shall submit a report on its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4001" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Administrative act” means any action, decision, adjudication, failure to act, omission, rule or regulation, interpretation, recommendation, policy, practice, or procedure of an agency.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>“Agency” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any officer or employee of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>any person providing services under a contract with the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services to individuals who are confined by or under the supervision of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any officer, employee, or administrative hearing examiner of the State or a unit of local government who is acting or purporting to act in relation to individuals confined by or under the supervision of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Agency” does not include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a judge, as defined in § 1–101 of the Courts Article, or any other employee of the judiciary;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the General Assembly or any member, employee, or committee of the General Assembly; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Governor or the Governor’s personal staff.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>“Complaint” means any communication:</text> <level label="i"> <text>from or on behalf of an individual confined by or under the supervision of an agency; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>alleging a violation of the individual’s rights or any applicable law, regulation, or standard:</text> <level label="1"> <text>by the agency; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>that impacted the individual.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Complaint” does not include a disciplinary proceeding of an incarcerated individual.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Office” means the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Records” means all materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, created, generated, recorded, received, possessed, or controlled by or on behalf of any agency.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4002" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <text>There is an Office of the Correctional Ombudsman established as an independent unit of State government.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4003" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a full–time Correctional Ombudsman;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>staff as provided in the State budget; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Juvenile Justice Monitoring Unit established in § 9–4012 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor shall appoint the Correctional Ombudsman with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Correctional Ombudsman shall serve for a term of 5 years.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, the Correctional Ombudsman continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Salaries of the Ombudsman and staff and expenses for rent, equipment, supplies, and general operating expenses necessary for the work of the Office shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4004" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office, in response to a complaint or on the Ombudsman’s initiative, shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>investigate any administrative act that the Ombudsman determines may be:</text> <level label="i"> <text>contrary to law or regulation;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>based on a mistake of fact;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>unsupported by sufficient evidence;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>performed in an inefficient manner;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>unreasonable under the totality of the circumstances; or</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>otherwise erroneous;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>conduct independent reviews and assessments of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>health services, including substance use disorder assessments and treatment, provided to individuals confined by any agency;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>mental health services provided to individuals confined by any agency;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>plans by agencies to expand, renovate, or close facilities;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>educational and vocational programs for individuals confined by any agency; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>agency policies on restrictive or protective housing;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>cooperate with any agency in efforts to improve the functioning of any agency or prevent abuses by agencies;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>inspect any facilities owned or controlled by any agency to monitor conditions in the facilities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>seek to resolve complaints against an agency through mediation or other conflict resolution methods;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>maintain a website that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>subject to the requirements of subsection (f) of this section, makes current and past reports available to the public; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>provides contact information for the Office; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>adopt regulations necessary to carry out the requirements of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall investigate each complaint about an administrative act, unless the Office determines that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the complaint could be addressed through another process;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious, or not made in good faith;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the complainant unreasonably delayed in bringing the complaint; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Office lacks sufficient resources to investigate the complaint.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office shall promptly inform a complainant of a decision not to investigate a complaint.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>On request, the Office shall promptly inform a complainant of the status of an investigation.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>On the completion of an investigation based on a complaint, the Office shall promptly inform the complainant of any conclusions, recommendations, and actions taken in response to the complaint.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If the Office determines that an employee or agent of an agency acted in a manner warranting criminal charges or disciplinary proceedings, the Office shall promptly refer the matter to appropriate authorities.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>interview agency personnel or any individual confined by an agency;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>access any records maintained by an agency;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>perform unannounced site visits and on–site inspections of facilities maintained by an agency;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>receive and respond to complaints without interception, review, or interference by an agency;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>review all reports of disciplinary actions, grievances, and grievance dispositions by the agency; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>collaborate with any agency or any unit of State government to investigate complaints or any alleged injury, neglect, or death of an individual confined by or under the supervision of an agency.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office may subpoena any individual to appear to give sworn testimony or produce documentary evidence that is reasonably necessary to carry out the Office’s duties.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an individual fails or refuses to comply with a subpoena issued by the Office, a court of competent jurisdiction, on the application of the Office, may issue an attachment for the individual and compel the individual to comply with the subpoena, appear before the Office, and produce documentary evidence for examination and give testimony.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If an individual disobeys a subpoena or refuses to testify, the court may punish the individual for contempt.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>In performing the duties assigned under this subtitle, the Office shall treat all complaints as confidential and may reveal the details of any complaints only if it is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>necessary to carry out the Office’s duties; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>done in accordance with applicable State and federal law.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4005" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>Within 30 days after completing an investigation, the Office shall submit to an agency a report containing any conclusions, recommendations, and requests for a response from the agency.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If the report submitted to an agency under this section contains a request for a response from the agency, the agency shall provide a written response within 45 days after receipt of the report.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Office may provide the report required by this section, as well as any responses by the agency, to the Governor or, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4006" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before December 31 each year, the Office shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>investigations conducted by the Office;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any actions taken by an agency as a result of the conclusions or recommendations of the Office;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>any instance where an agency rejects a recommendation or conclusion of the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>information on any death of an individual confined by or under the care of an agency.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In addition to the report required by subsection (a) of this section, the Office shall provide to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly any other reports that the Governor or the General Assembly may require.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A report prepared under this section shall be published on the Office’s website.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4007" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Board” means the Correctional Ombudsman Advisory Board.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Correctional Ombudsman Advisory Board.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purposes of the Board are to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide information to the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assist the Office in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>identifying appropriate matters to investigate; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>developing processes by which complaints are submitted, reviewed, investigated, and resolved.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Board shall consist of 12 members appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>To the extent practicable, the Governor shall ensure that the membership of the Board includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>family members of confined individuals;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>returning citizens;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>nonsupervisory correctional officers;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>members of the public with a demonstrated interest in corrections;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>individuals with backgrounds in health care and social work;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>individuals with backgrounds in mental health care and substance use disorder treatment; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>at least two individuals with experience managing a large government agency.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board may not include more than three members who are current or former employees of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>No member of the Board may be currently employed by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services in a supervisory capacity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>A member of the Board serves at the pleasure of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Office shall provide staff for the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4008" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office shall review potential federal funding sources, including grants offered under the Justice Reinvestment Initiative and the Second Chance Act.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Office may apply for relevant funding sources.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4011" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Disciplinary action” means any punitive action against a child that results in more security, additional obligations, or less personal freedom.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Executive Director” means the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Facility” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a residential facility operated by the Department;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a residential facility owned by the Department but privately operated; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a residential facility licensed by the Department.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>“Grievance” means a complaint made by a child or on behalf of a child due to a circumstance or an action considered to be unjust.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Grievance” does not include an employee grievance, disciplinary appeal, or complaint.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Juvenile justice monitor” means an individual employed by the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman to determine whether the needs of children under the jurisdiction of the Department are being met in compliance with State law, that their rights are being upheld, and that they are not being abused.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Juvenile Services.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Unit” means the Juvenile Justice Monitoring Unit of the Office.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4012" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Juvenile Justice Monitoring Unit of the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The function of the Unit is to investigate and determine whether the needs of children under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services are being met in compliance with State law, that their rights are being upheld, and that they are not being abused.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4013" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Unit shall include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a full–time Director of Juvenile Justice Monitoring; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>staff, including juvenile justice monitors, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Salaries of the Director and juvenile justice monitors and expenses for rent, equipment, supplies, and general operating expenses necessary for the work of the Unit shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In cooperation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Correctional Ombudsman shall set minimum salaries, qualifications, and standards of training and experience for positions with the Unit.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4014" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <text>The Unit shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>evaluate at each facility:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the child advocacy grievance process;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Department’s monitoring process;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the treatment of and services to youth;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the physical conditions of the facility; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>the adequacy of staffing;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>review all reports of disciplinary actions, grievances, and grievance dispositions received from each facility and alterations in the status or placement of a child that result in more security, additional obligations, or less personal freedom;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>receive copies of the grievances submitted to the Department;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>perform unannounced site visits and on–site inspections of facilities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>receive and review all incident reports submitted to the Department from facilities;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>receive reports of the findings of child protective services investigations of allegations of abuse or neglect of a child in a facility;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>ensure that each facility is in compliance with the regulations applicable to residential facilities;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>monitor the implementation of educational programs at each residential facility;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>collaborate with the Department, the Department of Human Services, the Maryland Department of Health, and the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy in all matters related to the licensing and monitoring of children’s residential facilities; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>have a representative available to attend meetings of the advisory boards established under § 9–230 of the Human Services Article and meetings of the Juvenile Services Education Board established under § 9–502 of the Human Services Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4015" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Unit may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>review relevant laws, policies, procedures, and juvenile justice records, including records relating to individual youth;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>on request, conduct interviews with staff, youth, and others;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>review investigative reports produced by the Department relating to youth in facilities; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>participate, within the context of the local department of social services’ multidisciplinary team process, in a child protective services investigation conducted under Title 5, Subtitle 7 of the Family Law Article concerning any allegation of abuse or neglect within any assigned facility.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Unit may subpoena any individual to appear to give sworn testimony or produce documentary evidence that is reasonably necessary to carry out the Unit’s duties.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If an individual fails or refuses to comply with a subpoena issued by the Unit, a court of competent jurisdiction, on the application of the Unit, may issue an attachment for the individual and compel the individual to comply with the subpoena, and appear before the Unit and produce documentary evidence for examination and give testimony.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If an individual disobeys a subpoena or refuses to testify, the court may punish the individual for contempt.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4016" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="40" subtitle_name="Office of the Correctional Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Unit shall report in a timely manner to the Executive Director, the Secretary, the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the Speaker of the House of Delegates and the President of the Senate:</text> <level label="1"> <text>knowledge of any problem regarding the care, supervision, and treatment of children in facilities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>findings, actions, and recommendations, related to the investigations of disciplinary actions, grievances, incident reports, and alleged cases of child abuse and neglect; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>all other findings and actions related to the monitoring required under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Unit shall report quarterly to the Executive Director and the Secretary.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A copy of the report shall be provided to the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The report shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>all activities of the Unit;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>actions taken by the Department resulting from the findings and recommendations of the Unit, including the Department’s response; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a summary of any violations of the standards and regulations of the Department that remained unabated for 30 days or more during the reporting period.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Beginning in 2006, on or before November 30 of each year, the Unit shall report to the Executive Director, the Secretary, the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices, the Governor, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly, on all the activities of the Office and the actions taken by the Department in response to findings and recommendations of the Unit.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4101" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Social and Economic Mobility.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Social and Economic Mobility.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Unit of State government” or “unit” means an agency or unit of the Executive Branch of State government.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4102" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Department of Social and Economic Mobility, established as a principal department of the State government.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The head of the Department is the Secretary of Social and Economic Mobility, who shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Secretary serves at the pleasure of the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The following units are in the Department:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Office of Minority Business Enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Office of Social Equity.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Department shall employ staff to carry out its duties as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4103" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>The purpose of the Department is to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provide support for units of State government, individuals, and businesses for the maintenance of social equity policies in the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>monitor trends in social equity programs and policies across the nation;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>propose new and innovative approaches to social equity programs;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>compile and produce reports and recommendations related to social equity;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>ensure the fulfillment of the roles and responsibilities of the entities and social equity programs in the State for which it is the successor;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>track the performance of social equity programs and small or disadvantaged business assistance programs;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>promote and encourage full participation in the regulated cannabis industry by individuals from communities that have previously been disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs in order to positively impact those communities and other duties assigned to the Office of Social Equity established under this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>support small or disadvantaged businesses in the State through all duties assigned to the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>carry out the duties of the Office of Minority Business Enterprises within the Maryland Department of Transportation, including duties assigned to support small or disadvantaged businesses.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Department shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>connect a person with programs in State, federal, and local government that serve designated populations to ensure the person is connected to programs and other opportunities the person is eligible for;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide units of State government with assistance related to the purpose of the Department by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>facilitating information sharing between units;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>maintaining an inventory of social equity work performed by each unit and relevant reports from those units;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>conducting policy analyses on social equity and the effectiveness of social equity programs;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>adopting standards for units to promote social equity; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>providing technical assistance to units; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>adopt regulations to carry out this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4104" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <text>A unit of State government other than the Department shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>ensure that a person that interacts with the unit’s program for designated populations is connected with all State programs for which the person may be eligible by referring the person to the Department; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>utilize standards set by the Department related to social equity.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4105" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <text>On or before December 1, 2026, and each year thereafter, the Department shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the work of the Department in the immediately preceding year; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>recommended changes to laws or policies to promote social equity.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4106" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>The Attorney General is legal adviser to the Department.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Attorney General shall assign to the Department the number of assistant Attorneys General authorized by law to be assigned to the Department and any additional assistant Attorneys General necessary to give effective legal advice and counsel.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Attorney General also shall designate an assistant Attorney General as counsel to the Department.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4107" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Fund” means the Department of Social and Economic Mobility Special Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Department of Social and Economic Mobility Special Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to pay the costs of the operation of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Office of Social Equity; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Office of Minority Business Enterprises.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Department shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund consists of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>revenue distributed to the Fund under § 2–1302.2 of the Tax – General Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>interest earnings of the Fund; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation from the Transportation Trust Fund to the Fund equal to the amount necessary to defray the operations and administrative expenses of the Office of Minority Business Enterprises.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Fund may be used only for paying the costs of the operation and administrative expenses of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Office of Social Equity; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Office of Minority Business Enterprises.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>Money expended from the Fund for the Office of Social Equity or the Office of Minority Business Enterprises is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the Office of Social Equity or the Office of Minority Business Enterprises.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4108" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Office of Social Equity within the Department.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor shall appoint an Executive Director of the Office of Social Equity.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Executive Director of the Office of Social Equity shall have at least 5 years of experience in civil rights advocacy, civil rights litigation, or another area of social justice.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Office of Social Equity may employ staff and retain contractors as may be required to carry out the functions of the Office.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Office of Social Equity shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>promote and encourage full participation in the regulated cannabis industry by people from communities that have previously been disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs in order to positively impact those communities;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>with the assistance of the Comptroller, oversee the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund under § 1–3A–03 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>consult with and assist the Department of Commerce in the administration of the Cannabis Business Assistance Fund under § 5–1901 of the Economic Development Article;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>identify and oppose regulations that unnecessarily burden or undermine the legislative intent of the Office, including regulations that impose undue restrictions or financial requirements;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>oversee the appropriation of funds and the training of recipients of funds from the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund under § 1–3A–03 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>provide recommendations to the Maryland Cannabis Administration on regulations related to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>diversity; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>social equity applications;</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>work with the Maryland Cannabis Administration to implement free technical assistance for social equity and minority cannabis business applicants;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>produce reports and recommendations on diversity and equity in ownership, management, and employment in the legal cannabis economy; and</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>assist businesses with obtaining financing through the Capital Access Program under Title 36, Subtitle 14 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4111" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Governor’s Subcabinet” means the Governor’s Subcabinet on Socioeconomic Procurement Participation.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>“Minority person” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an individual who has been deprived of the opportunity to develop and keep a competitive position in the economy because of a social or economic disadvantage that arises from cultural, racial, or other similar causes; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a sheltered workshop for individuals with disabilities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Minority person” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an Aleut;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an American Indian;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a Black;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>an Eskimo;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a Hispanic;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>an Oriental;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>a Puerto Rican; or</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>a woman.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Special Secretary” means the Special Secretary for the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4112" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <text>There is an Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs in the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4113" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>The head of the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs is the Special Secretary, who shall be appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Special Secretary shall receive the salary provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4114" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Governor’s Subcabinet on Socioeconomic Procurement Participation.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Governor’s Subcabinet is composed of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Secretary of Social and Economic Mobility, who shall serve as chair of the Subcabinet;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Secretary of Budget and Management, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Secretary of General Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Secretary of Information Technology, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families, or the Secretary’s Designee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>the Chief Procurement Officer for the State, or the Chief Procurement Officer’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the Minority Business Enterprise Ombudsman, or the Ombudsman’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>any other head of a department or agency that is accountable to the Governor, as deemed necessary by the Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor’s Subcabinet shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>meet:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a minimum of once each quarter; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>at a frequency deemed appropriate by the chair;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>study socioeconomic procurement programs in other states to identify successes and best practices;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>develop accountability measures for procurement forecasts, strategic plans, Procurement Review Group processes, and liaison officer accountability;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>work with the Office of State Procurement to implement process improvements that directly impact socioeconomic procurement businesses’ ability to fairly compete for and understand State contracting opportunities;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>identify and recommend statutory and regulatory reforms to strengthen and improve the State’s socioeconomic procurement programs; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>recommend actions to make improvements to the Small Business Reserve Program, the Minority Business Enterprise Program, and the Veteran Small Business Enterprise Program.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On or before December 31, 2025, and each December 1 thereafter, the Governor’s Subcabinet shall report to the Governor on the Governor’s Subcabinet’s activities, progress, and recommendations.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4115" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall conduct necessary and appropriate research to determine the nature and extent of the problems concerning black males and offer recommendations exclusively pertinent to black males in the areas of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>unemployment;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>criminal justice;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>education; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>health.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>As authorized by the Governor, the Special Secretary may create an Advisory Committee on Black Males to assist and advise the Office in developing recommendations in accordance with subsection (a) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Office shall submit its findings and recommendations in accordance with this section to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on or before January 1, 1995 and annually thereafter.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4116" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Ombudsman” means the Minority Business Enterprise Ombudsman in the Office.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a Minority Business Enterprise Ombudsman appointed by the Special Secretary.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In accordance with the State budget, the Special Secretary shall allocate the staff and Office resources to the Ombudsman necessary for the Ombudsman to fulfill the duties of the Ombudsman.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Ombudsman shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>assist the procurement officer managing the contract in attempts to resolve disputes between minority business enterprises and prime contractors, including disputes over contract scope and payments;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>serve as a resource to minority business enterprise liaisons, procurement officers in units of State government, prime contractors, and minority business enterprises in resolving disputes related to contracts that include a minority business enterprise participation goal; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>conduct trainings for procurement officers in units of State government on enforcement of the requirements of Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, including the assessment of liquidated damages under § 14–303(b)(6) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>In resolving a dispute under subsection (d) of this section, the Ombudsman may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>compel prime contractors and minority business enterprises to provide documentation related to contract performance and payments; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assist the procurement officer managing the contract in ordering any relevant payments to be made in conjunction with a dispute resolution.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, when resolving a dispute under subsection (d) of this section, the Ombudsman may not disclose information received from a unit of State government, prime contractor, or minority business enterprise without the written consent of the party from whom the information was obtained.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Ombudsman may disclose information received under this section to the assistant Attorney General assigned to the Office.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4117" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <text>Subject to the limitations of any law that governs the activities of other units of the Executive Branch of the State government, the Special Secretary shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>advise the Governor on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the activities of the State government that are intended to promote:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the employment of minority persons in the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>State contracting opportunities available to and the accessibility of those contracting opportunities to companies owned by minority persons, small businesses, and veteran–owned small businesses; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>each other matter that affects the rights and interests of minority persons, small businesses, and veteran–owned small businesses and the communities in which they live, work, and provide employment opportunities to others; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>as authorized by the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide help to minority persons, small businesses, and veteran–owned small businesses and the communities in which they live, work, and employ others;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>represent the Governor in any matter that relates to minority persons, small businesses, and veteran–owned small businesses or generally to the promotion of equality among the people of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>perform any other responsibility that the Governor assigns.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4118" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Primary procurement unit” has the meaning stated in § 11–101 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Small business” has the meaning stated in § 14–501 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Office shall consult with each primary procurement unit to identify potential contracting opportunities for and increase outreach efforts to small businesses.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Office, in consultation with primary procurement units, shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>identify and increase awareness of procurement opportunities for small businesses for services and supplies; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assist small businesses with procedures for bidding on a procurement contract or responding to a request for proposals.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4119" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies to the following minority business enterprises:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a publicly owned business if 1 or more minority persons own at least 51% of the stock of the business; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any other business if 1 or more minority persons own at least 50% of the business.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to the limitations of any law that governs the activities of other units of the Executive Branch of the State government, the Special Secretary shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>carry out each State or federal program that is created to promote the growth of or participation in minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>promote and coordinate training regarding the requirements of the Minority Business Enterprise Program;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>promote, coordinate, and participate in the plans, programs, and operations of the State government that promote or otherwise affect the establishment, preservation, and strengthening of minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>promote activities and the use of the resources of the State government, local governments, and private entities for the growth of minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>coordinate the effort of private entities and public agencies to develop minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>establish a system to develop, collect, summarize, and give out information that would help a person to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>establish a minority business enterprise;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>operate a minority business enterprise successfully; or</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>promote the establishment and successful operation of minority business enterprises;</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>establish a mentoring program:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in which larger and more established minority businesses can mentor start–up and small minority businesses; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>that incentivizes mentor participation by providing benefits to mentors, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>special recognition on the Office website, and in the Office newsletter and participation updates;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a certificate of participation awarded by the Office;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the opportunity to present highlights of mentor and protege relationships at an annual appreciation event sponsored by the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>increased networking and educational opportunities;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="8"> <text>conduct a feasibility study for creating a technical assistance program in the Office that provides one–on–one assistance to minority businesses in submitting competitive and successful bids and proposals for procurement contracts;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>provide training and educational opportunities for nonminority prime contractors regarding the duties and responsibilities of a prime contractor with respect to minority businesses; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>subject to the limitations of law and the availability of funds:</text> <level label="i"> <text>provide technical and managerial assistance to minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>provide the managerial and organizational framework for private entities and units of the State government to plan and carry out joint undertakings that relate to minority business enterprises;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>pay, wholly or partly, the costs of a pilot or demonstration project that is intended to overcome the special problems of minority business enterprises; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>establish an annual awards program to recognize localities that demonstrate the highest excellence in minority business enterprise support.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4120" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before the 15th day of each regular session of the General Assembly, the Special Secretary shall send an annual report on the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to the Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The annual report may be prepared in conjunction with the report required under § 14–305(b) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4121" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office shall develop a scorecard to evaluate units of State government on the units’ performance toward meeting:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the minority business enterprise participation goal established under § 14–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the veteran–owned small business enterprise goal established under § 14–602 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The scorecard shall include a grading scale developed by the Office as a weighted system that includes each unit’s contribution toward meeting the statewide:</text> <level label="1"> <text>minority business enterprise participation goal; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>veteran–owned small business enterprise goal.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Office shall publish the grades achieved by each unit under this section each year on the Office’s website.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Within 30 days of publishing information on its website in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Office shall submit the information published on its website to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="9-4122" title_number="9" title_name="Miscellaneous Executive Agencies" subtitle_number="41" subtitle_name="Department of Social and Economic Mobility"> <level label="a"> <text>On or before June 30 each year, each unit shall submit to the Office a procurement forecast for all procurement contracts over $100,000 for the upcoming fiscal year.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before August 15 each year, each unit shall submit annually the unit’s reconciliation of the prior fiscal year’s procurement forecast to include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the status of the forecasted procurements;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the total number of forecasted contracts that have been awarded; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the total number of procurements that have been awarded but were unanticipated by the unit’s prior fiscal year’s procurement forecast.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each unit shall notify the Office within 15 days of any updates to the existing forecast, including:</text> <level label="i"> <text>additional procurements forecasted for the current fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any previously forecasted procurements that are no longer anticipated to occur during the fiscal year.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Office shall publish the information provided by each unit on the Office’s website.</text> </level> </level> </section>